A Time-Honoured Tradition for Healing
After giving birth, a woman’s body is in a vulnerable state. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the postpartum period is seen as a crucial window to rest, repair and rebuild. This practice is known as “zuò yuè zi” (坐月子) — or “confinement”.
Confinement is a common postpartum practice among Chinese communities in Hong Kong, Taiwanese, Malaysian, Singaporean, Indonesian and Vietnamese communities. It refers not to restriction, but to a dedicated time of protection, warmth and nourishment. Traditionally lasting between 28 to 40 days, confinement allows mothers the space to recover deeply and prevent future health issues.
These practices are based on cultural traditions and personal preference, and should be adapted in consultation with your healthcare provider.
Why It Matters
According to TCM, childbirth causes a loss of Qi (energy) and blood, leaves the body more susceptible to cold and wind, and weakens key organs such as the liver, kidneys and spleen. Without proper recovery, this can lead to long-term issues like:
- Fatigue
- Hormonal imbalances
- Poor digestion
- Joint and muscle pain
- Reduced immunity
Confinement care aims to restore internal balance and lay the foundation for lifelong wellness. It focuses on:
- Rest – Allowing the body to heal without physical stress
- Warmth – Keeping the body insulated to support organ recovery
- Nourishment – Eating specific foods and soups that promote healing and milk supply
- Support – Creating space for bonding, rest and mental wellbeing
What It Involves
Though traditions vary by culture and family, many confinement practices share common elements, such as:
- Avoiding cold and wind
(e.g. no cold drinks, avoiding direct breeze, staying warm at all times) - Limiting physical activity
(e.g. minimising movement, avoiding stairs, prioritising bed rest) - Eating warm, nutrient-dense meals
(e.g. soups made with ginger, sesame oil, red dates, and Chinese herbs) - Modified hygiene practices
(e.g. warm baths and hair washing permitted with proper drying and warmth) - Belly wraps or abdominal binding
(to help the uterus contract, encourage posture support and promote core healing)
While some may seem strict or outdated, many women are now adapting confinement in a way that honours tradition while embracing flexibility and modern convenience.
A Three-Stage Journey
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, confinement care follows the 3-Stage Recovery Method, designed to match the body's changing needs across the first month postpartum:
- Stage 1 Warm & Nourish (Days 1-10): Traditionally, the first phase focuses on gentle internal cleansing and rest. The aim is to nourish and warm the body as it recovers from childbirth and prepares for the next phases of recovery.
- Stage 2 Rebuild & Rebalance (Days 11-20): After childbirth, energy levels are often depleted. In this stage, traditional postpartum herbal soups often include heartier ingredients, reflecting the cultural belief in supporting balance, comfort and gradual renewal after birth.
- Stage 3 Strengthen & Revitalise (Days 21-30): The final stage traditionally centres on nutrient-rich foods, with an emphasis on long-term nourishment and revitalisation as mums transition into everyday life.
Each stage requires different herbs, nutrients and preparation techniques, which is why it is important that soups and meals are carefully tailored for each phase.