I have never been a pad wearer, preferring tampons or menstrual cups. However, for the few weeks postpartum, pads are needed, and these are perfect from day 2 or 3, when you are done with the hospital kind and want something a little less bulky, but still with full coverage. Natracare maternity pads are soft and absorbent, but too narrow and short for the early days when you are (hopefully!) spending a lot of time reclining and resting, so I was very glad to find these. The design is great, they are breathable and comfortable, and biodegradable. They are very thin, but still absorbent enough for minor incontinence/bladder leaks most women experience in the early days after pushing a baby out..