Recovering from a C-section isn’t just about healing, it's about finding comfort again. Between the tenderness, the swelling, and looking after your new baby, the last thing you want is a waistband pressing into your scar. Choosing the best underwear for C-section recovery can make those first few weeks (at least) so much easier- helping you feel supported, held, and just a little bit more you.
In this guide, I’ll answer the questions most women ask after a C-section- from when to switch out disposable knickers to what styles feel best on a healing scar. Because whether you’re three days post-birth or three months in, you deserve softness, support, and zero digging seams (I hated these).
Why your underwear choice matters after a C-section
After surgery, your scar and surrounding skin are sensitive and swollen. Tight seams or low waistbands can irritate the incision site and delay healing. The right underwear which is breathable, soft and supportive, helps protect the area, reduces rubbing, and keeps you comfortable whether you’re moving, resting (which you should be doing lots of), or feeding.
When to wear disposable knickers (and why)
Let’s be honest, the first few weeks after birth are messy. That’s totally normal. During your postpartum bleeding phase (lochia) (and yes still happens if you don't have a vaginal birth), disposable underwear with built in maternity pads is your easiest option.
We love Frida Mom or other soft disposable knickers for this stage- no laundry or trying to balance the massive hospital pads in your knickers. Once your bleeding slows and your scar starts to heal (usually around 2–3 weeks), you can move into postpartum underwear.
What to look for in post-C-section underwear
When you’re ready to ditch the disposables, here’s what matters most:
- High-rise waistbands that sit comfortably above your scar.
- Seamless designs that help prevent rubbing and irritation.
- Soft, breathable fabrics that keep moisture away and let your skin breathe.
- Gentle stretch that supports your tummy without feeling restrictive.
The best styles for comfort and scar protection
Your best bet is a seamless high-rise brief that gently supports the lower tummy and holds everything in place without pressure. Avoid lace trims, low-cut styles, or anything with thick elastic bands that can rub against your incision.
Our Mutha Project underwear is designed with warp-knit stretch fabric that moulds to your body and recovers as you heal.
When you can wear “normal” underwear again
Most women can transition back to regular underwear around 6–8 weeks postpartum- once the incision is fully closed and tenderness has eased. But here’s the thing: most women tend not to.
Many mothers keep wearing their postpartum underwear long after healing because it’s just so comfortable. When it stretches and supports like it should, it becomes your new normal. This is another reason why it is worth choosing the right underwear in the first place- you’ll likely be wearing it a long time.
Why seamless, high-rise designs are your best friend
Seamless underwear with a high waistline is ideal for both physical and emotional recovery. It smooths your shape, supports your core, and avoids any irritation. Our warp-knit design gives you “bounce-back-ability” which stretches with your body, recovering as you do.
No digging seams. No harsh waistbands. Just softness, breathability, and a flattering fit that lasts well beyond those early weeks.
How The Mutha Project underwear supports recovery
After having two c-sections myself, I had my recovery in mind. Every piece is made in Europe using our special warp-knit fabric, created on Italian machines that seamlessly weave strength and stretch together.
That means one size can move with you through pregnancy, postpartum and recovery- always fitting, never fighting your body. Because when you’ve grown a whole human, your underwear shouldn’t be the hardest part of your day.
On a side note, I highly recommend scar silicone patches once your incision has started healing as they really help to smooth the.
Explore our soft, supportive postpartum knickers here.
