During pregnancy and in the time after birth, the body goes through many changes – and this also includes the intimate area. The tissues can feel more sensitive, swollen or sore for a period of time, especially after a vaginal birth.

Caring for the intimate area during this time is an important part of the body’s recovery. Small supportive products and gentle solutions for postpartum intimate care can help make everyday life more comfortable during the first weeks after birth.

On this page, we have gathered products developed for intimate hygiene and intimate care during pregnancy and postpartum.

The intimate area after birth

After giving birth, the body needs time to recover. The intimate area may feel swollen, warm or extra sensitive during the first days and weeks after birth.

It is common to experience:

• soreness in the intimate area
  
• swelling in the tissues
  
• postpartum bleeding during the first weeks
  
• skin that feels sensitive or tender
  

During this time, gentle intimate hygiene after birth can help make daily routines more comfortable.

Gentle cleansing and intimate hygiene

After giving birth, many midwives recommend rinsing the intimate area with lukewarm water after using the toilet rather than wiping with toilet paper. A peri bottle or postpartum intimate wash bottle can therefore be a practical way to clean the area gently.

Gentle cleansing can feel especially soothing when the skin is sensitive or when the intimate area needs extra care during the healing period.

Products for postpartum intimate care

There are several products that can make intimate care after birth easier. Many parents choose to have certain essentials ready before the baby arrives.

Common products for postpartum intimate care include:

• large maternity pads
  
• postpartum underwear
  
• a peri bottle for gentle rinsing
  
• gentle products for intimate care
  

Having these items ready can make the first days after birth a little easier.

Intimate care as part of postpartum recovery

The time after birth is largely about recovery – both for the body and for life as a new parent. Caring for the intimate area is an important part of this process.

Small routines of self-care can help make everyday life more comfortable during the postpartum period and give the body the space it needs to recover at its own pace.

Plume’s products are developed with the body’s needs during pregnancy, postpartum and the early days after birth in mind.