Traditional Chinese postpartum confinement is full of taboos and old customs, many of which are outdated and unscientific. Below are five common misconceptions.

Misconception 1: No contact with water

The postpartum confinement period, medically known as the puerperium, lasts roughly six weeks after childbirth. New mothers sweat heavily throughout this phase — this is called puerperal sweating, a natural process to expel excess fluid from the body. Lochia discharge, consisting of placental tissue, decidua and blood, also continues during this time, leaving mothers feeling uncomfortable.

It is essential for new mothers to wash their hair and body for comfort and relaxation. Only showers are permitted; sitz baths are forbidden. Keep all wounds dry, especially cesarean incision sites. Women who undergo cesarean delivery should wait one week before bathing. After showering, gently pat the abdominal incision dry with a clean towel or gauze, disinfect the wound and cover it with a sterile dressing.

Misconception 2: Do not brush teeth

During pregnancy, hormonal changes cause swollen, congested and bleeding gums, especially while brushing. Many attribute weakened teeth after delivery to calcium deficiency during gestation, leading to the false belief that brushing should be avoided postpartum.

In reality, new mothers consume large amounts of high-sugar and high-protein food daily. Without regular brushing, food debris trapped between teeth ferments and produces acid under bacterial action, demineralizing tooth enamel and triggering cavities, periodontal disease, bad breath and oral ulcers.

Brush teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and warm water to minimize irritation to teeth and gums.

Misconception 3: No cold or raw food

Fruits and vegetables are rich in dietary fiber. Eating them early and in sufficient quantities after delivery maintains intestinal regularity, facilitates defecation and speeds recovery, while preventing aggravated hemorrhoids.

Fruits do not need to be heated, but extremely cold food should be avoided.

Misconception 4: No physical activity

Childbirth is physically exhausting, yet gentle movement is recommended after adequate rest. Vaginal delivery patients may walk beside the bed as early as the second day postpartum to activate bodily functions and boost recovery.

Prolonged bed rest thickens the blood and raises blood coagulability, greatly increasing the risk of thrombosis.

Misconception 5: Do not read books

This claim lacks scientific basis. Reading and using mobile phones are acceptable, but avoid maintaining one posture for extended periods, which strains eyesight and the cervical spine.

Additional Guidance for New Mothers

Besides balanced nutrition, sufficient rest, proper hygiene and early ambulation:

1. Stay away from cold drafts; maintain room temperature between 25℃ and 28℃.

2. Initiate breastfeeding as soon as possible.

3. Attend scheduled postpartum follow-up examinations.

Family members shall provide attentive care and psychological counseling for mothers showing signs of depression. Seek professional medical help promptly if necessary to help them recover smoothly through the puerperium.