Confinement myths busted

Confinement is a period specially allotted for new mothers to recover and re-energize from childbirth. Though there are many rules that need to be followed during this time, most of them are mere myths. Read on to find out the truth behind some of the famous confinement myths.

1) Should not stay in an air-conditioned room

It is true that a new mother should not be exposed to direct wind as she may be vulnerable after childbirth but staying in an air-conditioned room does not cause harm as long as the temperature is not set too low. The recommended temperature is between 25˚C - 27˚C.

2) Should not bathe or wash your hair throughout the confinement period

This is a total myth, as it is very unhygienic not to bathe or wash your hair for 30+ days. You need to have a bath and shampoo your hair to keep away from germs, sweat and infection. Moreover, how can a mother breastfeed her baby when she is not clean? So even if you cannot bathe everyday, consider bathing alternate days and washing your hair once a week.

3) Consuming Chinese rice wine is okay

Chinese rice wine has alcohol in it, so do not consume it, as the alcohol content in the wine will be transmitted to your baby through breast milk. However, it is safe to consume rice wine if it is boiled thoroughly until the alcohol evaporates. But doctors highly recommend that you stay away from any alcohol-based food as long you are breastfeeding.

4) Consuming herbs is good

Of course, herbs are good to take, after they are boiled, as raw herbs contain toxins and doctors suggest that processed herbs in the form of capsules or extracts are much safer. Herbs are used along with confinement food to replace the hormones to make women feel better and energized. But doctors recommend minimal usage of herbs with food, as too much hormone is not good and may cause bleeding.

5) Should not eat fruits and vegetables

Avoiding fruits and vegetables during confinement is also a common practice as they are said to be cooling and would cause cold and flu. That is not true. Fruits and vegetables have vitamins and fiber that assist the new mother in recovering faster and aid in proper bowel habits.

6) Should not Drink Water

This is another myth that is followed during confinement period. It is believed that drinking water will cause retention of water in the body. But the truth is that drinking less or no water at all will cause constipation and dehydration. So drink plain or warm water but avoid taking soft drinks as they contain gases. Doctors advice women to drink plenty of red dates water when they feel dehydrated and to drink milk to produce more breast milk for the baby.

7) Should not touch cold water

May be if you are immersing yourself in the ice-cold water, this may prove to be true. But washing hands will not make much difference. Moreover, we are living in a tropical country where the water is hardly cold.

8) Should take ginger and black pepper to reduce wind

It is true that including ginger and black pepper in confinement food will help to get rid of wind in the body however remember to consume them in moderation.

Confinement rules may differ

The confinement rules may differ from household to household depending upon the older generation’s confinement practice. But before you follow them, make sure to give a thought and seek expert advice, as many of them are not suitable for today’s women.

Written by

Tara Alexander

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