Being a new mother is a life-changing moment. Starting your own family and going into another stage of your life is a unique and fulfilling experience for many, but it can also bring a new set of challenges and responsibilities that comes with looking after your baby, the family and yourself. Many mothers rush back to their daily routines after birth, expecting for full recovery without any assistance, however, some may instead never fully recover from having children.
According to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), labour and birth take a toll on a woman’s energy reserves (“qi” and blood). Based on these principles, new mums are immunologically and physically weaker, and are therefore more prone to invasion by wind, cold, dampness (a mixture of climatic factors regarded as pathogens).
In TCM, it is recommended to restore your general health during your confinement period which helps the mother’s recovery, and minimizes the occurrence of post-natal conditions in the future.TCM can assist with immediate recovery after childbirth for:
- persistent bleeding
- night sweats
- depression
- pain management
- insomnia
- fatigue
- general recovery
- difficulties with feeding
- lactation issues
- blockages and mastitis
Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture
Supplementing postnatal nourishment with traditional Chinese medicine is ideally prescriptive and personalised, as every individual differs in body constitution and physique, and the delivery process varies from person to person.
Principal of traditional Chinese medicine in different stages of confinement:
1st week focuses on flush outing the remaining placental blood and reducing swelling (cleansing blood stagnation and dampness).
2nd week focuses on nourishing blood, restoring healthy digestive system and encouraging a smooth and healthy milk supply.
3rd and 4th week incorporates collagen- and iron-rich herbal tea to rebuild the mother’s body (recovery for uterus and scar tissues).
While basic nourishment can be achieved through confinement recipes, for any post-natal complications or specific concerns, it is recommended to consult with a registered TCM practitioner for prescriptive herbs or treatment.