The ABCs of DIY Confinement

In Chinese culture, postpartum “confinement” is a customary practice where new mothers are placed under the care of a “confinement lady”. During the month-long confinement period, new mothers must follow commonly prescribed rules regarding diet and hygiene.

As lifestyles evolve, some women choose to take charge of their own confinement. Combining the best of tradition, common sense and comfort, this allows them to decide what works best for themselves. How can you pull this off? Well, read on!

Advanced planning

From household chores to errands and doctor’s visits, decide if you need help and plan for it. Even if you think you can manage on your own, having scheduled help allows you to focus fully on recuperating.

Before delivery, stock up on food you think you might need to ease your recovery. In the initial few weeks, why not opt for confinement food delivery? It is a great way to get the nourishment you need, effortlessly.

Bring back balance: eat well, sleep well

Nine months of pregnancy followed by labour places a huge physical strain on your body. To restore that balance, it is essential to ensure you maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is especially important if you are breastfeeding.

Sleep may be in short supply but it is crucial to ensure you get a regular supply of it. Delegate household tasks and schedule naps to coincide with baby’s nap time. Or get the husband involved and take turns to watch baby while you get some shut eye. The key is to prioritise your sleep as much as baby’s.

Cater for me time

It is easy to get caught up in the dramatic changes of having a new addition to the family.

Always remember, however, that you need to take care of yourself before you can take care of another.

Make time to do the things you enjoy or pamper yourself with a postnatal massage. Do some low impact exercises like yoga to relax but be careful not to strain yourself in this initial phase of recovery.  

Don’t neglect personal hygiene

Although tradition dictates that showering during confinement is a no-no, some choose to disregard this. Whether or not you follow the rules, it is important to maintain personal hygiene. Dress comfortably with a fresh change of clothes each time, and always keep wounds clean and dry to prevent infection.


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