Can a New Mother Go Out During the Postpartum Recovery Period?

After childbirth, a woman's body functions weaken, and she becomes physically frail, especially as her immune system decreases. It is essential to undergo confinement, a traditional practice to restore health, during this period. Adequate sleep and rest are vital for recovery. However, many new mothers find the idea of staying in bed for a month boring and crave the outdoors for a change of scenery. Opinions vary on whether it is permissible to go out during confinement.

1. Can a woman go out during confinement? It is generally advisable to stay indoors and rest in bed to facilitate better recovery. If there is a genuine need to go out, it is crucial to take warmth measures to prevent catching a cold or developing postpartum illnesses. New mothers should maintain a nutritious diet, avoid overexertion, refrain from touching cold water or consuming cold food, maintain a regular schedule, and maintain a good mood. Regular follow-up medical check-ups are also essential. Additionally, it is not advisable to take medication during confinement unless prescribed by a doctor.

2. Precautions during confinement:

2.1 Hygiene and cleanliness are crucial for new mothers during confinement. Improper hygiene can lead to various infections due to bacterial contamination. Therefore, it is essential to clean the body daily, especially the vagina.

2.2 Rest is vital as the body is weakened after childbirth. New mothers may experience symptoms like dizziness and fatigue. It is recommended to stay in bed, especially for the first week, with limited time spent out of bed. Gradually increasing the time spent out of bed is advisable as physical strength improves.

2.3 Indoor temperature control is essential, regardless of the season. The temperature should be maintained between 25-26°C, with humidity levels between 50-60%, to ensure the new mother is neither too cold nor too hot.

2.4 A balanced diet is crucial for postpartum recovery. It should provide adequate nutrition without being excessive or insufficient. Warm and nourishing foods are generally recommended. Additionally, the new mother's diet should be tailored to her individual physical condition.