Postpartum Care beyond the Western World: What It Can Teach Us

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Many ancient cultures believe that an extended period of special care during the postpartum period has important benefits for a new mother and her infant.

In some ancient cultures such as China, India, Thailand, and Arabia, it is a time-honored tradition for new mothers to spend the first 40 days after childbirth in seclusion or confinement. This practice helps the mother get the rest she needs so that she feels energized when it is time to resume normal activities.

These cultures also believe the newborn is tender and needs to be protected. Family and friends step forward to relieve the new mother of household chores such as cooking, cleaning, shopping, and babysitting so that she has time to care for her little one. Here are just a couple examples of traditional postpartum care in cultures where new mothers are honored and given special attention.

Haitian Culture

Pregnancy and childbirth are extremely risky propositions in Haiti—one of the world's least developed and poorest countries. Many Haitians face childbirth without a skilled physician or midwife, and according a 2002 United Nations report, Haitian women face an astoundingly high maternal mortality rate, with 523 deaths per 100,000 births.

Despite this, Haitian culture dictates that new mothers are nurtured and cared for as much as possible during their postpartum recovery. Baths, warm teas, warmth, and a period of restful confinement help women regain energy and vitality after delivery.

During the first days after giving birth, the new mother keeps her body warm, wearing long sleeves and keeping her head covered. She stays in the house for at least three days, and this time of bed rest ensures ample physical relaxation.

On a physical and psychological level it is soothing and settling for the woman to be kept warm and safe from drafty conditions. Such a protected environment may help counteract mood swings and possibly even the baby blues so frequent among new mothers.

Massage, consisting of patting the new mother's body to help it regain its shape, is part of care for new mothers in Haiti. Additionally, a special diet is traditional postpartum practice, and includes warm foods and drinks.