One of the Hygienic products that will accompany us during the puerperium are postpartum compresses. The compresses absorb postpartum lochia, those vaginal secretions that last between 6 and 8 weeks after giving birth and that are formed by a flow that contains blood, cervical mucus and placental tissue.
During this stage we cannot use tampons, and in the market there are special compresses for postpartum, gynecological or tocological compresses. We have to take into account some tips for choosing the most appropriate compress.
Immediately after delivery in the hospital they will provide us with the appropriate large compresses, since the first days after delivery the lochia are much more abundant than a rule. Even, two compresses can be placed along to avoid losses.
These first days it is convenient to use large disposable panties, because apart from needing large space for the compresses and not being able to adjust, there are usually losses that end up staining the clothes.
It is best that these compresses are made of cellulose (90% cotton) or completely cotton and do not contain plastic in none of its layers (or in which it is in contact with the skin, or in the adhesive), which apart from hindering perspiration could stick or stick to the points in the event that we have had an episiotomy.
Upon leaving the hospital we will continue to need this type of compress for a few days. In pharmacies they have special compresses of this class, of great size, that will come in handy for the first two weeks. There are with or without adhesive, and as we get incorporated at a normal pace (leaving home, more movement ...) we may be more interested in compresses with adhesive for our comfort and greater protection.
Then, with the passing of the days, the lochia are reduced and we can use normal-sized compresses, apart from returning to our usual underwear (although not adjusted, it is still convenient to keep the area as dry as possible).
In the market there are compresses of this size with or without wings (large ones do not usually carry wings), depending on whether we need more or less protection. Although the recommendation that they be made of cotton is still valid, as the risk of infection continues, apart from the comfort of good perspiration. A compress of the "normal", with layers of plastic and too many chemical compounds and products to be super absorbent and very thin, but not suitable because they can irritate the sensitive area at this time.
There are specific cotton pads with a kind of net that wraps them, but not recommended if we carry external points, as they could get caught. It is better that the compresses are with simple layers and smooth interlacing that do not interfere with the stitches.
In any case, whether they are larger or smaller compresses, they must be changed frequently avoiding excessive humidity and preventing the risk of infection, especially if we have external points. We remember the advice to take care of episiotomy: the good use of an appropriate postpartum compress is essential.
