Once the birth is over, an overwhelming and turbulent time begins. You get to know your new family member and slowly settle into your role as a mother. For the father, too, these first few weeks with the baby are incredibly moving and full of new experiences. You have probably heard the term "postpartum" before, but in our culture it is no longer as common as it once was. In our pragmatic and functional society, there is hardly any space or time for practicing the postpartum period.
What exactly is the postpartum period?
The "postpartum period" is the first time after birth when you and your baby get to know each other. Traditionally, you actually spend this time in or on the bed. In order to be able to devote yourself entirely to your baby, a young mother reduces physical exertion and activities to a minimum during the postpartum period.
How long does the postpartum period last?
There are no clear rules for the length and duration of the puerperium. The Duden dictionary defines the duration as "a period of 6 to 8 weeks after childbirth during which the changes to the female body caused by pregnancy and childbirth are reversed". (1) During this time, the mother is still under medical observation, attends aftercare and recovers from the pregnancy and birth. However, there are also women who forgo the puerperium altogether. For others it lasts a few days, for others several weeks.
How long you take for the puerperium is of course your personal decision. Many mothers opt for the "early postpartum bed". This term refers to the first 10 days after the birth.
Why do midwives and doctors recommend the postpartum period?
The puerperium has two important functions.
Firstly, the time after the birth is particularly important for building and strengthening a strong bond with your baby. The puerperium offers the ideal space for this. The bed is like a nest into which you can retreat with your baby. The puerperium is also a good place for the father to get to know your baby and to join you in this protected space.
Secondly, your body needs the 6 to 8 weeks after the birth to recover from the previous stresses and strains. Childbirth is without question a physical as well as mental and emotional challenge. The puerperium is a time of regeneration and recovery. Regeneration requires a lot of energy, so it helps if this time is as undisturbed as possible and without distractions.
Other cultures
In other cultures, the postpartum period plays a much greater role than it does here. In Asia, there is a tradition with the amusing name "mother roasting". Let's hope that no one literally roasts in the puerperium by mistake! The idea behind it, however, is to keep the mother warm at all times. Warm food, warm rooms and appropriate clothing help. Many women in the immediate vicinity lend a helping hand to help the mother recover. She receives massages, fresh hot tea and strengthening herbal elixirs. What a luxury!
In China, the postnatal period is a serious issue. Women who have recently given birth are not allowed to leave the house or do any work for 30 days. According to ancient tradition, numerous rules accompany this period: eating meat, as well as broths made from fish or oxtail and stews with red dates and ginger. During this time, women should not shower or receive visitors.
In Mexico, the puerperium is called "quarantine" and lasts 40 days. The woman who has recently given birth spends this time in isolation. Only female family members surround the mother, cook, help with the housework and keep her from making any effort. Traditionally, the midwife is the only person from outside the household to visit the mother.
Depending on socialization, society and personal attitudes, there are many different forms of postpartum care. If you are interested, take inspiration from others and from other cultures. The most important thing, however, is that you listen to yourself and your body. If you can, take your time with your baby and take care of yourself. You will find the right way.
The postpartum period with Lottili
In the next few articles, we will be looking at the topic of "postpartum" in more detail. If you would like to delve even deeper into the first few weeks after the birth with us, then stay with us and check back here on our blog from time to time. We look forward to seeing you.
References:
(1) https://www.duden.de/rechtschreibung/Wochenbett
