Postpartum confinement is a process of physical and mental recovery for new mothers. If the body is not properly cared for during this period, it can lead to a series of serious sequelae. However, despite this, many people still fall into misconceptions about postpartum confinement due to traditional beliefs.
[Myths about Postpartum Confinement]
1. Lack of Ventilation
Traditional beliefs suggest that new mothers should avoid drafts during their confinement period. However, this is incorrect.
The postpartum room should be well-ventilated. This does not mean opening all the windows and letting the wind blow directly in. The correct approach is to have a layer of curtains to eliminate hidden bacteria and ensure sufficient oxygen for both the mother and the baby.
2. Lack of Physical Activity
The older generation believes that new mothers should rest in bed as much as possible during confinement. Many people interpret this literally and think that confinement means "sitting." In fact, it is dangerous for new mothers to sit still for a long time.
Prolonged bed rest can easily lead to blood clots in the lower limbs. Once these clots travel to the heart and lungs, it can be life-threatening.
3. No Hair Washing
"Oh my! How can you wash your hair during confinement? It will cause illness!" Many new mothers have heard such statements. However, personal hygiene should be a priority after childbirth.
During the confinement period, new mothers need to eliminate the increased blood volume from pregnancy, and their metabolism is relatively active. The most obvious sign is increased sweating. It would be uncomfortable if they don't clean themselves thoroughly and become sticky all over.
[Dietary Choices during Postpartum Confinement]
1. Millet
Millet is rich in vitamin B1 and B2, and it has a high fiber content. It can help new mothers regain their strength, stimulate gastrointestinal motility, and improve appetite.
Expert reminder: Millet should not be the sole staple food during confinement, as it can lead to nutrient loss. Moreover, millet has a low content of lysine, and excessive intake can affect protein absorption.
2. Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is high in iron and is a traditional blood-enriching food for new mothers during confinement. Due to its higher content of sucrose than white sugar, drinking brown sugar water can make people feel warm and promote the discharge of lochia.
Expert reminder: Drinking brown sugar water should not exceed 10 days, as prolonged consumption can lead to blood lochia. Moreover, in summer, excessive sweating can lead to a lack of salt in the body.
3. Eggs
Eggs have always been one of the top three best foods for confinement. They are rich in protein with high utilization rate, and they also contain lecithin, lutein, and various vitamins and minerals. Eggs not only help new mothers regain their strength during confinement but also maintain the health of their nervous system.
Expert reminder: Eating 3-4 eggs per day is sufficient. Excessive protein intake cannot be absorbed by the body and can induce other nutritional diseases.
[Precautions for New Mothers during Postpartum Confinement]
1. Ensure Adequate Rest
Since childbirth can cause extreme fatigue for new mothers, the first thing after giving birth is to let them have a good sleep. After a full rest, they should eat nutritious and easy-to-digest foods and drink plenty of water.
2. Start Moving Early
In general, new mothers who have had a normal vaginal delivery should start getting out of bed and walking on the second day after giving birth. After 1 week postpartum, they can engage in light household chores, but the duration should not be too long, and they should avoid doing heavy physical work.
3. Pay Attention to Personal Hygiene
Due to increased sweating after childbirth, new mothers should wash their hair, feet, and change their underwear frequently to maintain cleanliness. After each meal, they should rinse their mouth with warm water. The room should be well-ventilated, with a moderate indoor temperature, not too high or too low.
4. Breastfeeding
After childbirth, the breasts are congested and swollen. Early breastfeeding helps stimulate milk secretion and ensures a good start for future breastfeeding. It also helps promote uterine contraction and recovery.
