Nursing Pad: Applications & Health Benefits

Nursing pads are liners for the bra cups of pregnant and breastfeeding women. They catch the small amounts of breast milk that can leak at any time during pregnancy just before birth. Nursing pads are an important part of hygiene for pregnant and nursing mothers.

What are nursing pads?

Every pregnant woman and mother should try different nursing pads with different absorbency and find out which one she needs. A nursing pad is a pad shaped like the cup of the bra. It has a universal size, so there is no need to consider the cup size when buying it. If the nursing pad is inserted correctly, it is not noticeable to the woman. The pads are made of absorbent cellulose or plain paper, which is perfectly adequate for the normal droplets of breast milk that escape from the breast. Nursing pads are used on the one hand to protect the bra, and on the other hand for hygienic reasons. Breast milk does not contain aggressive components that could destroy the fabric of the bra, however, thanks to the nursing pad, it no longer needs to be changed every few hours. If, on the other hand, the moisture from breast milk were to accumulate in the bra, germs could form over time, leading to irritation and inflammation – and the need to dispose of the bra.

Forms, types and types

Nursing pads can be bought on the market in different qualities. In terms of shape, they do not differ significantly, so almost any make will fit any bra. Over time, of course, every woman develops her individual preference. For pregnant women shortly before giving birth, who detect the first tiny drops of milk in their bra, very thin nursing pads are usually perfectly adequate. They do not yet need to be extremely absorbent. Breastfeeding mothers, on the other hand, tend to prefer more absorbent nursing pads, since the leaking breast milk can become more than it was during pregnancy. Since this also varies from woman to woman, every pregnant woman and every mother should try out different nursing pads with different absorbency and find out which one she needs. Nursing pads can be made of paper or absorbent cellulose for single use, or made of regular cloth for reuse. The reusable form of nursing pad is more like a thin pad that is placed inside the bra cups and can be washed hot after use. This type of nursing pad is also perfectly hygienic when washed properly and is preferred by some women out of environmental responsibility.

Structure and operation

Nursing pad is a simple hygienic means of breast care for pregnant and breastfeeding women. In its basic form, the simple single-use paper nursing pad is simply an absorbent piece of paper cut to fit the bra cup. Unlike sanitary napkins or diapers, for example, nursing pads do not have an absorbent core that retains moisture because they do not come into contact with that much moisture. Higher-quality nursing pads are shaped to fit the bra cup, so they fit more comfortably and securely and the woman doesn’t feel anything from the nursing pads. Reusable nursing pads consist of an outer layer of fabric that is kind to the skin and gentle on sensitive nipples. Inside them is a more or less thick, absorbent core, which, however, can be cleaned in the washing machine without leaving any residue. Reusable nursing pads always adapt to the shape of the female breast, as they are thicker and more stable than simple paper pads. High-quality products are not visible from the outside even with thin, unpadded bras, so they do not unintentionally enlarge the breast. Some nursing pads also have an anti-odor effect and antibacterial properties due to their fabric. These products are particularly suitable for women who are prone to inflammation of the nipple or still suffer from an attacked immune system after pregnancy.

Medical and health benefits

First of all, nursing pads are a protection against wet stains in the bra and on the top. Already in the pregnant woman in the last weeks and days before birth, minimal droplets of breast milk leak from the breast, which are not a cause for concern, but can be an uncomfortable. During this time, nursing pads protect against leakage into the bra or onto the top.Breastfeeding mothers, on the other hand, need this protection most of the time, as they constantly have small droplets of breast milk leaking out. Breastfeeding can cause the fine, sensitive skin of the nipples to crack, which explains the increased sensitivity of a breastfeeding woman. However, breast milk can also collect in these cracks if it is not absorbed by a nursing pad. Warmth and moisture are known to be the best foundation for pathogens. Over time, the bacteria that thrive as a result may cause painful breast infections that can prevent a woman from breastfeeding. In such cases, a breastfeeding attachment and, if necessary, a breast pump are also useful. Another pleasant effect of a good nursing pad is its odor-inhibiting effect. Although breast milk itself usually does not have an unpleasant odor, it can develop one if it is not removed by washing or showering for several hours. The nursing pad takes on a short-term cleansing function by absorbing the leaked breast milk and keeping it away from the breast. Unpleasant odors are thus prevented from developing in the first place and the breastfeeding woman feels more comfortable in everyday life. Especially in warm temperatures, leaking breast milk can develop an unpleasant odor due to bacteria, which is prevented by the nursing pads.