Maternity pads, also known as postpartum pads or maternity sanitary pads, are specifically designed for women who have recently given birth. These pads are designed to provide maximum comfort, absorbency, and protection during the postpartum period when women experience bleeding and discharge.
Here are the typical features, content, and specifications of maternity pads:
Absorbency: Maternity pads are highly absorbent to handle the heavy flow experienced by women after childbirth. They are often thicker and more absorbent than regular sanitary pads.
Length and Size: Maternity pads are longer and wider compared to standard sanitary pads. This provides extra coverage and ensures that they can handle the flow without any leakage.
Softness and Comfort: The top layer of maternity pads is usually made from a soft, breathable material to maximize comfort, especially since the perineal area may be sensitive postpartum.
Shape and Contouring: Many maternity pads are contoured to fit the shape of the body, providing a comfortable and secure fit. This is important for preventing leaks and ensuring overall comfort.
Adhesive Backing: Maternity pads typically have adhesive backing to secure them in place within regular underwear.
Hygiene and Infection Prevention: Some maternity pads are designed with additional features to promote hygiene and prevent infection. This may include antibacterial properties or specific materials that discourage bacterial growth.
Material Composition: Maternity pads are often made from a combination of materials, including a soft top layer, absorbent core, and a moisture-proof or breathable bottom layer. The materials used should be safe for use in the postpartum period.
Fragrance-Free: Maternity pads are often fragrance-free to minimize the risk of irritation or allergic reactions, especially during a time when the body may be more sensitive.
Individually Wrapped: Maternity pads are usually individually wrapped for hygiene and convenience. This makes them easy to carry in a diaper bag or purse.
Disposable: Most maternity pads are disposable, allowing for easy and convenient disposal after use.
It’s important to note that different brands may have variations in design and features, so it’s advisable to read product labels and choose a brand that aligns with your preferences and Needs. Additionally, consulting with healthcare professionals can provide personalized recommendations based on individual circumstances.
Product Specification As per IS-5405:2025 Third Revision
Maternity pads specifically designed for women who have recently given birth. These pads are designed to provide maximum comfort, absorbency, and protection during the postpartum period when women experience bleeding and discharge.
MATERIALS: –
1.1 Absorbent Core: An absorbent core forming the middle layer(s) shall consist of filler materials, such as wood Pulp and super absorbent material. It shall be free from lumps, oil spots, dirt or foreign material.
1.2 Cover/Top sheet: The cover/top sheet is the material which comes under contact with skin during use. The cover of maternity pad shall be of good quality cotton, rayon knitted sleeve or gauze, non-woven fabric or any other materials with sufficient porosity to permit the assembled pad to meet the absorbency requirements. If cotton gauze is used, it shall conform to IS 758.
1.3 Barrier or Bottom Sheet: The barrier shall be made of suitable leak proof material so that it meets the requirement specified in 7.2.
SIZES: –
2.1 Size Pad length (mm)
(Absorbent core only)
Pad width (mm)
(Absorbent core only)
Regular =210 Min 55
For Maternity Pad : Length-; Greater equal > 281 mm & Width- Min. 80 mm.
MANUFACTURE, WORKMANSHIP AND FINISH: –
3.1 The wood pulp or other absorbent filler shall be arranged and neatly cut to the required size and shape of the maternity pad without any wrinkles and distortion. The absorbent material is deposited on to a pre-glued cover in such a way that it does not cause lump formation with the effect of sudden pressure. The covering fabric should cover the filler completely and shall extend beyond the width for wing formation or beyond the length of the filler to form tabs or loops at each end. The absorbent along with the cover is then fed to the embossing unit, if any pattern is required to be embossed. Finally, a pre-glued barrier is applied on to other sides of absorbent filler, forming a complete napkin structure. A napkin is then sealed using heat and pressure along the periphery or alternatively,
It can be stitched or glued, depending upon the type of material used. In case of tab-less napkins, an adhesive system or other suitable method may be introduced for holding the napkin securely in position. The barrier is applied with adhesives with release paper to fix the napkin to the undergarment, for the tab-less napkins.
3.2 When the maternity pads are claimed to be disposable, they shall be manufactured from disposable material. The maternity pad shall have a soft feel and when worn shall not chafe or give any uncomfortable feeling. They shall be free from all sorts of foreign matters.
REQUIREMENTS: –
4.1 Absorbency and ability to Withstand pressure after Absorption: -Ability to Withstand Pressure after Absorption: The maternity pad shall absorb 50 ml of colored distilled water and it shall not show leakage at the bottom or sides of the maternity pad, when tested according to method given in attached BIS test report, which verified by BIS.
