What to Wear after C Section in Hospital?

Are you wondering what to wear after c section in a hospital?

Well, apart from the postpartum pads and underwear, you will need comfortable clothing. Some new moms choose to wear trackies or pajama pants that go over the wound, while others prefer maternity leggings and nighties made from soft cotton material.

If you don’t like spending those few days in the hospital gown, whatever you wear should not have a tight waistband to ease the recovery of the c section wound.

So let’s look at what you have in your hospital bag if you are booked in for a c section.

What to wear after C section in the hospital

1. Best pants to wear after c section

You have probably heard people say that the most suitable pants to wear after c section are high waist underwear. Why?

First and foremost, after delivery, you need comfortable underwear to hold huge pads in place.

This underwear should go all the way up over the incision. This means that they should be high-waisted.

Our Pick

INNERSY cotton soft briefs
  • HIGH WAISTED DESIGN: High waisted design of the underwear provides warmness and gentleness, also it’s of great breathability. And the super comfort panties are a perfect choice for postpartum c-section recovery and abdominal surgery recovery. It is an ideal gifts for women of all ages or other people in need. With the simple and refined design, they can feel another freedom whether staying at home or doing sport.
  • FULL BACK COVERAGE: The breathable cotton panties will full coverage your hips smoothly and lift butt, let your hip breathable freely, no ride up and tight, which show your best curves. Whether wearing yoga pants, leggings, high waisted jeans or dresses, they do not leave panty lines. And the underwear are available in black, white, red and other colors, you can choose according to your preferences and seasonal changes.
  • SHAPING OF FIGURE: The soft wide double-layer and stretchy waistband with light compression on the tummy to smooth your belly, reduce the appearance of muffin top, slim down, maintain a smooth look and add charm. And the elasticity waistband is friendly to your skin and won’t roll or leave marks on your waist. And the underwear are from small size to plus size, please get your perfect match according to your own size.
  • CARE INSTRUCTION: Gentle machine wash with laundry bag and tumble dry with low heat to maintain maximum performance and recovery. The reasonable lifespan of briefs is related to the frequency of wearing. It is recommended to replace the underwear that is worn frequently every three months. At the same time, for the health of personal privacy, the lifespan of underwear should not exceed six months.
  • SATISFACTORY GUARANTEE: We are very glad to listen to customer’s real ideas and fine-tune every detail to ensure the products are right what you want and you will always find comfortable and preferable underwear here. Your delight with our products is our duty.

There are special pants designed for after C-section, such as these INNERSY cotton soft briefs. These briefs are 95% cotton, so they are breathable and provide much-needed comfort after delivery.

They have a waistband at the top that prevents them from sliding down. In addition, they offer full back coverage so they can hold the maternity pads in place.

Runner-up

UpSpring Baby C-Panty C-Section Support
  • MADE FOR C-SECTION MOMS with COMFORTABLE, UPWARD COMPRESSION to help push fluids away from the incision area, and a BUILT-IN SILICONE PANEL that provides targeted support of the incision and may help reduce the appearance of scars.
  • THE ORIGINAL, PATENTED recovery product. No velcro, sticky strips, granny panties or cotton boxers that don't hurt but don't help! Long after you've tossed the disposable panties and too tight shapers, C-Panty will be hard at work.
  • PULL-ON-AND-GO C-Panty will help in all recovery stages. CAN'T START RIGHT AWAY? No worries, recovery continues under the skin for a while so you can start anytime in the first month, and later if you are more concerned with the appearance of scarring.
  • WEEKS 1-4: Ideally start C-Panty as soon as you are comfortable, usually day 3-4. Just cover the silicone panel with a panty-liner until your incison is closed, around week 1-2.
  • The COMFORTABLE, UPWARD COMPRESSION pushes fluids away from the incision area, which aids in recovery. The gentle tummy compression is designed to be at the appropriate level for recovery.
  • WEEKS 5-12: Continued support at the bikini line is key in this middle recovery stage. Keep C-Panty on when you're up and about. Compression helps with fluids and comfort throughout the day. Our silicone works to help minimize the appearance of scarring.
  • MONTHS 3-6+: Scars mature for up to a year. This silicone panel helps minimize the appearance of scars, and reduce the need for messy scar gels or sheets. Smoother tummy? C-Panty is your friend with the just right amount of wearable support and slimming.

You can also try c section recovery underwear like UpSpring Baby C-Panty with a compression panel.

The panel is designed to slightly slim the postpartum belly, provide support to weakened tissue so as to speed up the recovery process.

Also, they help to reduce excess fluids so that the uterus can quickly go back to its normal size.

2. Maternity dresses

Yes, you are not done with maternity dresses yet. Unless you want to spend your hospital days in the hospital gown, your maternity dresses will come in handy.

This is because they are free-flowing dresses; hence, they do not aggravate your incision. They also tend to be very comfortable and give you easy access to breastfeeding.

3. Labor, Delivery and Nursing gowns

Labor and delivery gowns may look like your ordinary hospital issued gowns, but they are quite different.

For instance, the Baby Be Mine Labor and Delivery gowns are not only stylish but also give easy access to medical examinations and fetal monitoring.

Moreover, unlike the hospital gowns, which are cumbersome to wear and often leave your back open, these nursing gowns are discreet in that they cover you fully.

Sale
Baby Be Mine Labor and Delivery gowns
  • Snaps in the back ensure total coverage; No more flashing! Easy epidural access;So just say “no thank you’ to that tatty old hospital gown and put on something from home, it feels great, clean and stylish – and yes! You can look stylish when giving birth
  • With a sewn in adjustable empire waistline you can be sure of a perfect fit along with a discreetly hidden front panel, you can freely move around yet have easy access for medical examinations or fetal monitoring
  • Shoulder snaps on both sides allow easy access for medical examination and first skin to skin contact with you new baby; Great for breastfeeding; Discreet front flap - move freely with easy access for examinations and monitoring
  • Shoulder snaps on both sides allow easy access for medical examination and first skin to skin contact with you new baby; Great for breastfeeding; Discreet front flap - move freely with easy access for examinations and monitoring

So, no more flashing. You do not have to be ashamed to welcome your visitors or even walk around when wearing one of these.

For breastfeeding friendly clothes after delivery, try the Ekouaer Women’s delivery and nursing gown. They give you easy access to allow breastfeeding and also allow seamless medical examination during labor and after delivery.

They also come in different colors and are comfortable to wear as casual, lounge, maternity, or sleepwear.

Ekouaer Women’s delivery and nursing gown
  • ❤SKIN-FRIENDLY MATERIAL:Ekouaer nursing nightgown is made from 95% rayon,5% spandex.New zippers nursing gown is made of soft modal fabric and natural flower extraction dyeing.Skin friendly,breathable,lightweight,can make your skin breath freely and bring you comfort sleep.It can be perfect nusing nightwear during pregnancy,labor and postpartum.
  • ❤FEATURES: Maternity nursing nightgown comes round neck,raglan/solid short sleeve,both side zippers on the chest,a-line split/asymmetrical hem design,knee length nursing nightgowns.Cotton postpartum dress style, soft, lightweight, stretchy and comfortable fabric is good choice for sleeping and going outside.Asymmetrical hem design adds more fashion to mother.
  • ❤BOTH SIDE HIDE ZIPPERS:The soft nursing gown has the access for feeding by unfastening zipper one or both sides. Side openings are designed for easily breastfeeding,and are secure also when not feeding.The nursing pajama dress provides you with a more comfortable and functional labor delivery and postpatum.
  • ❤HUMANIZATION DESIGN:Its loose-fitting elastic fit allows comfort for your beautiful expanding belly.Extra room around the tummy design comes with a pleasantly roomy fit for added comfort during and after pregnancy.Suitable for spring,summer,autumn.
  • ❤3 IN 1 FUNCTIONS: 3 in 1 labor and delivery nursing gown is suitable for nursing nightgowns, maternity hospital nightgown, postpartum sleeping gowns, breastfeeding pajama dress,labor delivery gown. Great Nursing Gifts--Perfect Pregnant Gift Choice for Your Pregnant Wife, Sisters or Friends--They will love this nursing sleepwear nightgown that they can stay with it through all stages: pregnancy, labor, delivery, postparturm and nursing new baby.

4. Postpartum girdle

After a C-section, even a slight movement may create some discomfort or pain in the incision area. This is why there are specially designed girdles for post-C-section such as the Bellefit Compression Girdle.

This girdle is highly recommended by doctors to provide you with adequate support around the waist and the lower abdomen so that you can regain your mobility sooner.

Bellefit Compression Girdle
  • DUAL-CLOSURE GIRDLE - This dual-closure girdle is a very flexible and adjustable medical-grade postpartum girdle, making it ideal for most body shapes.
  • DUAL-CLOSURE GIRDLE FOR POSTPARTUM C-SECTION RECOVERY - This dual-closure girdle accelerates healing so you can get back into those skinny jeans in no time! Not only does it support post-baby bellies, but it also provides comfortable movement while simultaneously reducing swelling and pain.
  • DUAL-CLOSURE GIRDLE FOR POSTPARTUM NATURAL BIRTH RECOVERY - This dual-closure girdle gets fast results with the “Double Corset” because of its fit as a combination corset with girdle and zipper. You can feel cute and recover discreetly with this tummy-flattening, back-supporting girdle.
  • POSTPARTUM ABDOMINAL TRAINER GIRDLE - This postpartum abdominal trainer has triple-layered, reinforced front panel and four individually-sewn back panels evenly distribute tension for medical-grade compression and support, making it a great abdominal trainer girdle.
  • POSTPARTUM TUMMY BINDER GIRDLE - This postpartum tummy binder girdle supports and compresses your tummy. The adjustable front closure and lateral zipper side make the girdle easy to put on and wear.

It also offers compression, which reduces swelling by enabling the uterus to eliminate excess fluids so that you can go back to your pre-pregnancy body sooner.

5. A tank top or loose shirt with maternity leggings

Tank tops are a must-have breastfeeding clothing. They double as nursing bras, but they are not as tight since most do not have an underwire.

The first few weeks after c section, a nursing tank like the BRAVADO nursing tank top will help to slightly compress your midsection so that you can quickly lose a few inches around your belly.

BRAVADO! DESIGNS Women's Dream Nursing Tank
  • Built-In, molded, double layer cotton, full support nursing bra
  • Premium cotton tank and discreet nursing clips make it ideal for inner or outerwear
  • Hip-Length, fitted, yet not clingy
  • Neckline provides just the right amount of coverage
  • Removable foam inserts for shape and discretion

You can pair your tank top with a pair of maternity leggings with a belly band that goes over the incision for comfort. If it has a compression band, make sure stretchy and holds up without sliding down as you walk, as this may irritate the incision.

6. Leggings after c section

You will definitely not be in a position to wear leggings immediately after C-section. Even without the compression panel, leggings are too tight and can irritate the incision and aggravate it.

You might have to wait a while until about 6 to 8 weeks before rocking those leggings.

If you must wear leggings earlier than this, go for loose yoga pants with a high waist.

Once the incision heals, you can wear high-waisted leggings with a compression panel. The compression panel is meant to provide belly support and compress it a little so that the uterus can quickly get back to its pre-baby size.

7. Best pajamas for the hospital after c section

It’s likely that you’ll spend the first day after giving birth in your pajamas. Gowns are ideal for prenatal visits and postpartum medical checks since they are loose and comfortable.

It’s common to live in your pajamas for a while after giving birth. Do not feel isolated. Because of how comfy they are, most new mothers choose to wear them all day long.

All you need is to find a material that feels soft and comfortable. If you choose to wear pajama pants like these Liu & QU comfy maternity lounge pants, make sure the waistband can go all the way up over the incision so that it does not aggravate it.

Liu & Qu Maternity Women's Casual Pants
  • 【Comfy & Stretchy】 95% Rayon, 5% Spandex. The fabric of this maternity pant is soft and elastic. These pregnancy jogger pants provide you with softly-but-not-suffocating-wrapped feeling and coziness.
  • 【Room to Grow】This maternity leggings featured with a soft waistband and knit in panel that relieves pressure and provides back and belly soft support and a relaxing comfortable fit and provide plenty of room to grow.
  • 【Versatile Essential】The maternity pants with pockets designed to smooth hips, thighs, bottom and belly for a sleeker look, helping ease the discomfort of pregnancy. It provides a flattering silhouette while supporting your baby bump.
  • 【Various Occasions】Pair with the cute shirts or maternity pajama when lounging around the house. Perfect for sleep, work, yoga, workout, jogging, or running errands. Great for pregnancy and postpartum.
  • 【Abdominal Circumferences】 SIZE fits for hips [S] 36-37'' [M] 38-39'' [L] 40-41'' [XL] 42-43''.

You can also wear the Kindred Bravely maternity and nursing pajamas, which come in a set. They are soft and very comfortable, so you can wear them during pregnancy, labor, and after delivery.

Kindred Bravely maternity and nursing pajamas
  • PERFECT GIFT FOR EXPECTING MOMS - So soft you'll want to live in them, both during and after pregnancy. Makes a great baby shower gift for new moms!
  • EASY AND DISCREET BREASTFEEDING ACCESS - Discreet enough for nursing in front of company. 2-layer top for easy breastfeeding access.
  • SLEEP IN COMFORT - The elastic-free nursing design means your PJs will never chafe or dig. The comfortable elastic waistband easily transitions from pregnancy to motherhood.
  • GET THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU - Moms wanting to use pajamas and tanks in their last months of pregnancy will want to size up one size. Available in sizes X-Small to XXX-Large in several beautiful colors.

These nursing pajamas have an elastic-free nursing design, so it doesn’t dig or chafe, which gives you comfort when breastfeeding.

Bearsland Maternity nursing pajama set can also be won postpartum after C-section. They come in a set of 3 pieces; breastfeeding top, half sleeve cardigan, and sleep pants. The waistband of the pants is elastic and adjustable, so you don’t have to worry about it irritating the incision after delivery.

Bearsland Maternity nursing pajama set
  • Material: Modal 93.1% Polyester and 6.9% spandex,soft,high Stretchy,casual,fashion,comfortable.
  • 3 Pieces Pajamas Set:half sleeve cardigan,breastfeeding top and sleep pant.Double front layers, lift up the front layer of the tops for breastfeeding.Adjustable waistband,design to fit different stages of your pregnancy.No zipper,No lining,simple,make your breastfeeding so easy.
  • Elastic adjustable waist line on the pants
  • Great for casual,dating,party time,or special occasion,in Spring,summer and Autumn.
  • Machine wash in cold water recommended with like colors. Do not bleach. Do not iron.

What should you not wear after a c-section?

  • Avoid buttoned pants since they may rub against the incision and cause irritation.
  • Choose light and breathable clothing.
  • Avoid tight dresses and pants that may irritate the healing wound
  • Go for clothes that are comfortable to breastfeed in, like tank tops and dresses that give you easy access
  • Shorts and pants that have an elastic waistband should be avoided since they may be too tight around the incision

See also: Bras to wear while breastfeeding


Conclusion

The most important thing to consider about what to wear after a c-section in a hospital is that whatever you choose should not interfere with the incision.

Maternity dresses and nursing nightgowns are more suitable since they do not have waistbands for you to worry about.

However, if you love pants, leggings, and shorts, make sure the waistband goes all the way up so as to keep the wound clean and facilitate faster healing.

Resources:

Last update on 2023-09-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Leave a Comment