TCM Confinement: What Happens During the 30-Day Period

Your baby is finally here. Alongside the joy and excitement, you're probably exhausted after the long experience of pregnancy and labour. TCM confinement offers a traditional 30-day period focused on rest and gentle recovery, giving you the time to heal and bond with your newborn without the pressure to bounce back quickly.

What is TCM confinement?

Confinement, known as zuo yuezi (坐月子) in Chinese, is a postpartum practice rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It combines rest, specific dietary choices, and lifestyle adjustments to support your body's natural recovery after childbirth.

The practice typically lasts 28 to 30 days (sometimes extending to six weeks after a caesarean birth). During this time, you nourish your body with warming foods, herbal remedies, and gentle self-care routines. The goal is to support your long-term health and wellbeing during this important transition.

Why is confinement practised after childbirth?

In TCM, childbirth is understood as a time when your body has used significant energy (Qi) and Blood to bring your baby into the world. This naturally leaves you in what TCM describes as a "cold" phase. Your body needs extra care and warmth to restore its natural balance.

During this time, you may feel more physically sensitive than usual. TCM confinement practices are designed to:

• Restores Qi and Blood:

  • Childbirth involves Blood loss, which can leave you feeling depleted. 

  • TCM confinement focuses on replenishing this through nourishing foods and rest. 

  • This helps your body rebuild its energy reserves over time.

• Protects against "wind" and cold:

  • In TCM, your body is considered more sensitive to environmental influences like wind and cold in the weeks after birth. 

  • This is why confinement practices often include keeping warm and avoiding exposure to cold air.

  • The belief is that these external factors can enter through your skin and affect your long-term wellbeing.

• Strengthens long-term health:

  • Proper postpartum care may help reduce tiredness, support immunity, and ease joint pain over time.

You won't harm yourself by choosing not to follow confinement practices, yet many mothers who do follow these traditions feel more balanced.

How can TCM support your postpartum recovery?

TCM confinement focuses on practical steps that support your body's natural healing process. Here are the key areas to focus on during your recovery period.

Avoid cold foods and drinks

After giving birth, your body needs warmth to heal. In TCM, cold foods and drinks like iced water, salads, or smoothies are thought to slow your recovery. Focus on warming foods like ginger, sesame oil, and soups to help restore balance and support your digestion.

Keep your abdomen covered and avoid sitting directly in front of air conditioning or fans. These simple steps can help you feel more comfortable during your recovery.

Rest as much as possible

The first month is important for your healing. Staying home allows you to rest properly and reduces your exposure to germs that could affect you or your baby. It's completely fine to limit visitors during this time. Your recovery should be the priority.

Nourish yourself with confinement meals

What you eat matters during your recovery. Nutritious meals help replenish lost nutrients, support breastfeeding, and restore your energy. Popular confinement foods include:

• Fish soup and pig trotter soup for your milk production

• Chicken and pork for protein and healing

• Tonic wine in soups to improve your circulation and milk supply

• Confinement herbs for extra nourishment

These traditional foods are chosen to support your body during this healing period.

Stay gentle with movement

Light stretching and gentle walks can support your mood and help your body heal. However, avoid intense exercise. Pushing yourself too hard during this early stage may slow your recovery.

Maintain good hygiene

A common myth is that you should avoid bathing during confinement. This isn't true. Bathing is essential for your hygiene, especially with postpartum vaginal discharge that can cause infections if not cleaned properly.

Make sure your bathwater is warm. Dry your body and hair completely after showering. Adding confinement herbs to your bathwater is a traditional practice thought to support circulation and comfort.

Thomson Chinese Medicine's 28-day Confinement Herbal Care & Bath

If you're a mother looking to include TCM and confinement herbs in your recovery, Thomson Chinese Medicine offers a 28-day Confinement Herbal Care package.

The package includes sachets and capsules for three stages of your postpartum recovery:

• Uterus recovery support

• Digestive wellness and breastfeeding support

• Energy support

These herbs are customised according to your condition and needs. They require no hours of brewing. Simply mix the powder with warm water for a comforting drink.

The herbs are designed to support your overall health during the postpartum period. They follow traditional TCM principles used in confinement care.

Consulting with a TCM physician after delivery ensures a personalised herbal care plan that can support your postpartum recovery. Request an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine to explore the 28-day Confinement Herbal Care & Bath package tailored to your needs.

Thomson Chinese Medicine's Post-Confinement Care

Your healing doesn't stop after day 28. The traditional confinement period marks an important beginning, but recovery often continues beyond this time. As you prepare to return to work or ease back into everyday life, you may experience tiredness, poor sleep, bloating, low milk supply, or emotional changes.

Thomson's Post-Confinement TCM Care Package offers continued support during this transition. Taking time to care for yourself can help you feel more ready to care for your baby.

Recovery is a process, not a race. Listen to your body and give yourself the time you need.

FAQ

Is TCM confinement suitable after a C-section? 

Can TCM confinement be combined with modern medical care? 

Yes. Many TCM physicians create confinement plans that work alongside your Western postpartum care. This includes support for breastfeeding, nutrition guidance, and follow-up checks with your gynaecologist.

Can TCM confinement help with breastfeeding and milk supply? 

What is the difference between traditional confinement and TCM confinement? 

Traditional confinement focuses on rest and diet after childbirth. TCM confinement uses specific TCM principles, herbs, acupuncture, and personalised treatments based on your individual needs.

Can TCM confinement help prevent long-term postpartum health issues? 

TCM confinement focuses on supporting your body's recovery during the postpartum period. The traditional practices are designed to help you feel more restored over time. However, individual outcomes can vary.

Is TCM confinement necessary if I'm feeling physically well after delivery? 

TCM confinement is not strictly necessary. Many women choose it as a traditional approach to postpartum care, even if they feel well after birth. The decision is entirely based on your own personal preferences and circumstances.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your conditions, request an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine today.