Natracare
New Mother Maternity Pads, Pack of 10
8.3/10 overall£7.68 (pack of 10)
High-absorbency, organic-cotton maternity pads designed for the heavier bleeding after birth, not standard period pads.
Postpartum bleeding (lochia) is heavier and lasts longer than a period — the NHS advises it can continue on and off for up to six weeks — and maternity pads are built with a higher absorbency core and a longer, wider shape than standard sanitary pads to handle that. Bounty's Super pads are a widely stocked, straightforward option specifically designed for the first, heaviest days after birth.
The NHS is explicit that tampons and menstrual cups should not be used for the first six weeks after birth due to infection risk, which makes maternity pads a genuine hospital-bag essential rather than an optional extra — pack more than you think you'll need for the first few days.
What we liked
- Purpose-built absorbency for postpartum bleeding, not repurposed period pads
- Widely available and inexpensive
- Simple, no-fuss design
Where it falls short
- You'll need more than one pack for the first week
- Basic design without wings or extra retention features some brands offer
- Not reusable/eco-friendly
Specs
- Pack size
- 10 pads
- Absorbency
- Super, for heavier postpartum bleeding
- Suitable for
- First days after birth
How we scored it
Effectiveness
How well it does its stated job.
Reliable absorbency for the heaviest postpartum days.
Convenience
How easy it is to use and pack for the hospital bag.
Widely stocked and simple to use.
Value for Money
Cost relative to what you get.
Inexpensive, practical to buy in bulk before the birth.
Weighted by importance for this category — see our editorial policy for how we test.
The alternative
Kit & Kin
Hypoallergenic Newborn Nappies Size 1
Plant-based, chlorine-free nappies with an umbilical cord cut-out, sized for newborns from birth.