Finding the Right Balance in Postpartum Confinement Care

The postnatal period is often one of the most overlooked phases in the lives of mothers. Many societies in the world have specific traditional practices applicable to a new mother in the first 30 days post-birth. When in confinement, these certain dietary and hygiene restrictions could introduce women to psychological distress arising from their compromised self-esteem and limited freedom. The idea of not being able to wash one’s hair or drink plain water for the entire month fills most mothers in horror, including the people around. These are predominantly based on myths, not science.

Break the Confinement Rule or Take the Advice? 

Every new mother receives their fair dose of unsolicited advice from well-intentioned family members and friends. It can be rather anxiety-inducing, especially for first time moms. For mothers who do not want these taboos to distract them from the real rationale of postpartum care, lodging into a confinement facility, like Mommy Mansion, is actually one of the best things they can do for themselves after giving birth.

Rest, Recuperate and Rejuvenate

New mothers get to enjoy their month-long retreat at what feels like a cosy home away from home and focus on a time that is intentionally set aside for 3 main purposes only: to rest and recuperate from the birthing process; to have plentiful opportunities for mother and baby to bond; to rebuild a healthy body and mind to begin the journey of motherhood.

Mothers who have a good recovery after childbirth are less likely to suffer from postnatal issues, such as depression, fatigue, lower back pain, hair loss and insomnia.

One Size Does Not Fit All

Here, it's about adapting traditional practice for modern life, and meeting the individual needs and wants of modern mothers. The last thing they want to do is to force mothers to choose between myths and science, and mothers are not left with much choice if they are in confinement at home with elder female relatives. Being in this centre significantly reduces intergenerational conflicts about how to perform confinement rituals, particularly hygiene practices like washing one's hair. This gives new parents full freedom to truly enjoy their time with their newborn.

For new moms who intend to “do the month”, it's definitely more practical to be under professional postpartum care in a confinement centre rather than to rely on hiring confinement nannies to do the job at home. Mommy Mansion is staffed with qualified nurses who can monitor both mommy's and baby's daily health, guide the breastfeeding process, advise on proper hygiene procedures and mentor on baby care. Not to mention, they are present 24 hours a day with knowledge of first aid, in times of need. 

Plus, a well-balanced menu of nutrient-rich meals are prepared to nourish new mothers and help them produce breast milk for their babies. Dietary practices at Mommy Mansion are constructed in accordance with contemporary nutritional principles, so mommies do not have to worry about not knowing how to prepare the month meals or whether it's acceptable to eat something cold or being doused with too much herbal concoctions.   

The complexity of the month also comes with some concern that isolation and lack of adequate sleep might raise the risk for postpartum depression. Rather than sucking it all up alone at home, the whole concept of lodging at a confinement centre is being able to get all the support every new mother needs to recover and rejuvenate. This includes getting access to activities such as parenting talks and workshops, as well as being able to interact with other new mommies to share experiences and gain support. Additionally, there is a wellness area here that promotes further healing and relaxation through massages and spa treatments.

The Perfect Postpartum Retreat

With everything carefully planned for and being taken care of, the postpartum confinement month at Mommy Mansion will feel anything but like a confinement camp. It is well worth travelling the hundred-foot journey to Klang to experience the perfect retreat to re-nourish, restore and renew oneself after giving birth. You would wish they accomodate for bookings that last beyond the month.

Reference:

1. Which Confinement Rules Should You Follow? https://www.asiaone.com/women/which-confinement-rules-should-you-follow