Post-delivery confinement is deep rooted in our Asian cultures. The logic behind is that both mother and baby need to rest. The little one needs to be protected from infections whereas the mother who has been through the exhaustion of childbirth needs to rejuvenate.
It’s said that, if confinement is well done, the mother is healthy and there will not be any future health repercussions. While confinement is important, it’s even more important that we get the myths busted and follow the facts!
Here are 10 Confinement facts and myths:
1. No baths allowed!
Myth: No head baths during this period. This will prevent wind from entering mother’s body through her scalp. Such wind will cause headache.
Fact: During confinement there is excess sebum produced. If there’s no hair wash, there are more chances of infection due to blocked hair follicles. Bathing in water with Chinese herbs which are easily available, is known for preventing wind from entering body. Pour hot water over herbs; let it cool down to the desired temperature and bath in the same.
2. Cannot drink water
Myth: Don’t drink water during this period. It will cause water retention.
Fact: You need to be well hydrated for producing enough breast milk. Negotiate with your confinement nanny on having more warm or hot liquids.
3. You have to drink a shot of alcohol everyday
Myth: Alcohol is an important aspect of confinement food Singapore. Mother’s body is cold after blood loss and alcohol will warm her up.
Fact: Alcohol is secreted in breast milk and it passes onto your baby; hence it should be avoided.
4. You must eat a lot of herbs
Myth: The more the herbal supplement you include in your confinement diet, the better it is. It strengthens your body.
Fact: Health profile differs from person to person. Incorrect intake of herbal remedies may cause more harm than benefits. Research and consult your doctor; however, avoid cooling foods like cucumber and watermelon.
5. You cannot sleep with the air-con on and no standing directly infront of the fan
Myth: No to fans or air conditioners! It makes way for wind during this time.
Fact: Comfort and rest play a major role in recovery. When the temperature is hot, you and your baby cannot sleep well. Moderate AC or fan will cause no harm.
6. You must eat a lot of 'heaty' food
Myth: Confinement dishes should be made of ‘heaty’ foods like old ginger, sesame oil, vinegar and meat only.
Fact: On the contrary, your menu should comprise of a balanced diet. The baby gets what you eat. Your baby’s vital organs are growing and they need a constant supply of nutrition.
7. You cannot touch cold water
Myth: Never touch tap or cold water during confinement. It will cause joint pains in later life.
Fact: Singapore water is not that cold anyway! This particular confinement practice may be followed in countries where water is really cold.
8. Do not go outdoors
Myth: Never step out during confinement! Wind will affect your bones.
Fact: Excess exposure to cold winds may affect your health, which is unlikely in Singapore. On the contrary, no exposure to sun and fresh air may cause adverse health effects.
9. You cannot do any reading
Myth: Reading will weaken your eyes during confinement. Blood loss weakens liver which in turn weakens your eyes. Reading will further strain your eyes.
Fact: Including Chinese wolfberries into your diet will help you strengthen your liver and eyes. While good amount of sleep is crucial for the new mother, after a couple of weeks if you are comfortable, engage in some interesting reading as long as you want. It will refresh you.
10. Wear socks at all times!
Myth: Feet should not touch the floor, it makes you susceptible to cold. Always wear socks.
Fact: This may be true in cold weather. As this is quite easy, you may follow this and keep the negotiations reserved for other myths like no bath.
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