Using collagen for postpartum recovery is an easy and effective way to boost your nutrient stores and support your healing body. Here’s our round-up of the best postpartum collagen brands to try.
If you’re considering using collagen to support your healing body after birth, you’ll be happy to know we did all the hard work for you.
Below, you’ll find what we think are the best postpartum collagen brands, plus some information on why collagen is beneficial, if it’s safe while breastfeeding, and what you should avoid when shopping for collagen.
Quick shop postpartum collagen:
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Why is collagen good for postpartum?
What makes collagen helpful for life after birth? Here's why:
Collagen can be a great option for your postpartum recovery, especially for those who are breastfeeding (more on that below).
Collagen contains amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Protein is a critical nutrient that helps encourage muscle recovery and supports joints and tissue throughout the body. Studies show that collagen can even help with hair loss and thinning.
And protein from food sources alone isn’t always enough. Glycine is a critical amino acid that is tricky to receive adequate amounts of through food alone but is plentiful in collagen.
Most collagen supplements are made from different animal sources, including:
Bovine (cow)
Pig
Chicken
Fish
Please note: If you are vegan, there are some vegan options (like this one) in the market, but remember that there aren’t many studies on the efficacy of vegan collagen.
Benefits of taking collagen in postpartum
1. Improved skin elasticity and hydration
2. Reduced stretch marks
Some believe collagen can also help reduce the appearance of stretch marks, common after childbirth. Of course, this is anecdotal at this point, but collagen is known to improve skin elasticity.
3. Improved joint health
Collagen is also essential for joint health. Studies have shown that taking powdered collagen supplements can improve joint pain and stiffness in people with osteoarthritis.
This can be especially beneficial for postpartum women who may be experiencing joint pain due to carrying and caring for their new baby.
4. Increased muscle mass and strength
Collagen is also important for muscle mass and strength. Studies have shown that taking powdered collagen supplements can increase muscle mass and strength in people who are strength training.
This can be beneficial for postpartum women who are trying to return to their pre-pregnancy fitness level.
5. Improved gut health
Collagen can also help to improve gut health. Studies have shown that taking powdered collagen supplements can reduce inflammation and improve the gut barrier function.
This can be beneficial for postpartum women, who are at increased risk of developing gut problems.
In addition to these research-backed benefits, taking powdered collagen postpartum has also been shown to improve hair growth, sleep quality, and overall mood.
Overall, taking powdered collagen postpartum can be a safe and effective way to improve overall health and well-being. That’s why you’ll find our top picks for postpartum collagen below. We’ve made it easy for you!
Is collagen safe for lactating mothers and breastfeeding?
Currently, there are no official studies on breastfeeding and collagen intake, but it’s believed to be safe – and beneficial – for those lactating. If you are concerned, absolutely speak with your care provider.
One website states, “Many women wonder about collagen and breastfeeding. The answer is yes; it is safe to take while breastfeeding. There are no known side effects from taking it. It is a great supplement to help heal from pregnancy and repair any damage done.”
Breastfeeding requires an extra 25g of protein daily to support milk production and lactation. Adding collagen to smoothies, tea, or coffee can boost your protein intake and help you reach your nutritional requirements.
To learn more about postpartum nutrition, check out our expert-written Postpartum Nutrition Guide, featuring over 40+ recipes and nutrition support.
Best collagen for postpartum and breastfeeding
Keep reading to learn more about each company and why they made our list.
At a glance, here are our top four picks:
1. Needed Collagen Protein
Designed specifically for pregnancy and postpartum, the Needed Collagen Protein powder contains hydrolyzed bovine collagen (broken down into smaller chains called peptides) from “ethically sourced from the hides of grass-fed, pasture-raised, hormone-free bovines.”
One serving of this collagen contains 15g of protein and is designed to be optimally absorbed in your system.
The Needed Collagen Protein powder has 600+ five-star reviews and seems like a must-have for those preparing for postpartum recovery or who are currently postpartum at any stage.
Why this collagen is great for postpartum recovery:
Free from dairy, soy, grains, and legumes
Free from the number of heavy metals found in plant-based protein powders
Easy to take powder form
Unflavored taste (add it to anything!)
Third-party tested for quality
Easily digestible and absorbed
Save 20% on your first order with discount code HELLOPOSTPARTUM at checkout. Order now.
2. Biomeology Prenatal Collagen Peptides
If you’re looking for postpartum collagen that’s completely colorless, odorless, and 100% additive-free, the Prenatal Collagen Peptides from Biomeology is a fabulous option. I use it for my solids-eating kids, too!
I’ve personally mixed this into oatmeal, yogurt, and my overnight chia seed pudding, all without noticing any extra taste but getting all the benefits of extra protein. With this collagen, you’ll also benefit from glycine and amino acids.
Because the only ingredient in this collagen is 100% bovine collagen peptides, you can rest assured that there are no extra fillers or questionable ingredients. Also, if you’re sensitive to “flavorings,” this one – as mentioned above – is totally tasteless and odorless.
Why this collagen blend is great for postpartum recovery:
Made in the USA and third-party tested
Made from pasture-raised cattle
Verified pesticide-free
Made with no extra ingredients
High in protein, glycine, and amino acids
Exclusive savings! Save on your first order with code HELLOPOSTPARTUM at checkout. Order now.
3. Perelel Cellular Hydration Powder
Perelel's Cellular Hydration Powder is way more than a collagen powder as it's designed to replenish lost electrolytes and minerals, helping new moms combat fatigue, headaches, and sluggish digestion.
With coconut water powder, trace minerals, and magnesium, it supports hydration at a cellular level for better energy and balance.
Perelel's Cellular Hydration Powder contains hydrolyzed collagen to support postpartum recovery by promoting skin elasticity, joint health, and tissue repair.
Unlike sugary drinks, this clean, easy-to-digest formula is designed for postpartum recovery, helping moms feel restored and replenished.
Why this collagen blend is great for postpartum recovery:
- Deep hydration – Replenishes electrolytes and minerals to combat postpartum dehydration, fatigue, and headaches.
- Supports recovery – Contains essential nutrients that aid in tissue repair and muscle recovery after birth.
- Boosts collagen production – Hydrolyzed collagen helps restore skin elasticity, strengthen joints, and support overall healing.
- Aids digestion – Includes gut-friendly ingredients to promote healthy digestion and reduce bloating.
- Clean & nourishing – Free from artificial additives and excess sugar, making it a safe, easy-to-digest option for new moms.
4. Provita Nourish Postpartum Collagen Peptides
The Provita Nourish Postpartum Collagen Peptides is derived from porcine (pigs) and is ethically sourced, tested, and produced. It’s vanilla-flavored and easy to blend into shakes or water.
This powder is also non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, lactose-free, soy-free, and preservative-free, but keep in mind there are only 15 servings per bag, so you’ll need two bags to last a month.
The Provita Nourish Collagen has an average rating of 4.3, with over 40 reviews on Amazon. And yes, it’s available for Prime shipping.
Why this collagen blend is great for postpartum recovery:
Made in the USA and third-party tested
Fast-absorbing and bioavailable ingredients
Clinically proven to support recovery times
Safe and effective for breastfeeding
Supports hair, skin, and nail growth
How to choose the right collagen supplement for you
Still not sure which one is the best choice for you? Here are a few more points to consider before making your final decision.
Type of collagen (Hydrolyzed or not?)
Source of collagen (Bovine, porcine, vegan?)
Form of collagen supplement (do you have a preference?)
Dosage (or how many servings per bag?)
Additives (ideally, there are none!)
Price (what fits your budget best?)
Collagen to avoid in postpartum
When finding the best postpartum collagen brands for recovery after birth, it’s important to look for brands that stand behind their products and put quality first.
With this in mind, you should avoid collagen products that:
Contain filler ingredients
Aren’t tested for heavy metals or toxins
Are artificially flavored or colored
Aren’t in the peptide or hydrolyzed form
Is sourced from an animal you are allergic to (e.g., shellfish)
Final thoughts on choosing collagen for your postpartum recovery
Proper nutrition is a critical component of recovering from birth. Your body requires energy from food to heal wounds, create milk, and support your energy levels.
Adding collagen to your postpartum recovery plan can be a helpful, supportive way to ensure you take the best care possible after birth.
When deciding which is the best postpartum collagen to incorporate into your daily life, consider your end goal while using collagen, your budget/how much you’d like to spend each month, and how long you plan to take it. These are all factors that can influence your decision.
