10 Outdated Confinement Myths, Busted

Congrats, you did it! Now that you’re safely home with your new bundle of joy, what’s next? The Big C-word that has put fear in the hearts of many a first-time mum. While it’s true that you should be taking special care of your body after the harrowing act of childbirth (whether it was a smooth and speedy natural delivery or more "exciting" caesarean), the antiquated traditions passed down over the decades by confinement nannies and "aunties" often belong to a different time. 

These confinement myths usually originate from a time without heated or clean running water, electricity or air-conditioning — and should be reconsidered in the hot, sweaty, climate-change-impacted, high-tech modern Singapore. Let’s examine and debunk some of this unreasonable folklore, in order to separate the baby from the bathwater that needs to be thrown out.

Confinement Myth #1: No Fan Or Airconditioning

Confinement is a lot about keeping the body warm, which is why new mummies are told to dress warmly. The belief is that using a fan or air conditioning during confinement can cause "wind" to enter the body, leading to health issues.

The Truth

Just like pregnant mummies can feel unreasonably hot during their later trimesters due to hormones, a hormonal change takes place post-pregnancy that can also cause body temperature fluctuations and excessive sweating. Ensuring a comfortable and cool environment is essential for both mummy’s and baby’s comfort and well-being, so as to prevent heat rash and night sweats, etc.

It's perfectly fine to use air conditioning during confinement in the humid tropics, even if you may wish to avoid having the fan blow directly on you. Staying hydrated and wearing comfortable light clothing is also important for your physical and mental health. 

Confinement Myth #2: No Touching Water 

The same fear of "wind" entering the body also fuels the belief that new mothers should avoid water contact during confinement, so as to prevent conditions like arthritis and headaches later in life. It is important to note that this myth originated when there was no heated or running water. 

The Truth

On the contrary, maintaining and ensuring good personal hygiene after giving birth is an absolute necessity. It doesn’t just keep you comfortable (and clean) — it’s important in the immediate prevention of skin and wound infections, especially if you’ve had surgery or stitches. It’s important to keep the wound clean and dry, whether it’s in your abdomen from a C-section or the perineum from tearing, so as to hasten healing and avoid infection, so it's okay to wash yourself and dry off afterwards. Also, you (and the people around you) will generally feel better if you’re clean and comfortable.

Confinement Myth #3: No Washing Hair

An extension of the previous myth, many believe that washing your hair during confinement can lead to headaches or migraines.

The Truth:

Washing your hair is perfectly safe during confinement. In fact, maintaining personal cleanliness and staying well-groomed does heaps for your self-confidence and mental well-being. Many mummies are so busy with the new task of caring for their infants that they forget to care for themselves, which can be detrimental to mental health and personal happiness levels. You need self-care, and this includes the simple act of taking a warm shower and washing the sweat and grime out of your hair — especially in hot and humid Singapore.

Confinement Myth #4: No Walking Or Moving Around

Confinement is often associated with lying in bed and avoiding physical activity. This stems from the belief that walking or moving around will increase muscle weakness after birth, which is why mummies are encouraged to be convalescent in bed for a month.

The Truth:

The very opposite is true. Walking and moving around as soon as is comfortable or practicable (of course, you should be lying in bed for a day or two if you’ve just had a C-section) is helpful for preventing deep vein thrombosis. Walking and doing some gentle, light exercises are very beneficial activities during confinement because they help improve blood circulation and your overall health. Staying in bed for a whole month would most likely reduce muscle tone!

Confinement Myth #5: No Leaving The House 

Another traditional confinement rule forbids new mummies from leaving the house during the confinement period. This may also stem from the fear of “wind” as well as the fear of catching germs and infections. 

The Truth:

While it's probably advisable for both mum and baby to avoid crowded places and harsh weather conditions, occasional outdoor walks can be refreshing and beneficial. As long as you feel strong and well enough, there is little harm and great benefit in enjoying some fresh outdoor air. Besides, germs are everywhere — even at home, which is why washing and staying clean is more important than isolation. 

Confinement Myth #6: No Drinking Of Water

Another wind-related worry: the belief is that consuming too much water can lead to water retention or swelling, causing your body temperature to decline, leading to “wind” entering the body.

The Truth:

Staying well-hydrated is crucial during confinement, especially when you’re sweating all the time in 30-40C weather, AND breastfeeding. Drinking water helps prevent dehydration and supports healthy milk production for breastfeeding mothers. While the recommended daily consumption of water for an adult is 8 glasses, nursing mothers need 16 cups a day — or one glass every time you breastfeed. In direct contradiction to the myth, dehydration is a sure road to Migraine City. 

Confinement Myth #7: Drink Alcohol!

Another crazy one: there's an unreasonable misconception that consuming alcohol during confinement is beneficial, because it boosts blood circulation and warms the body—again, to drive out the dreaded “wind”.

The Truth:

There is simply no substantiated rationale behind this one. Consuming alcohol during confinement is neither advisable nor responsible! Firstly, it can impair mummy’s judgment (especially in combination with sleep deprivation) which can be dangerous when taking care of a fragile little baby. Secondly, it can lead to direct health risks for mummy who is recovering from fresh wounds. Thirdly — and most importantly — if you’re breastfeeding, the alcohol will pass through your breastmilk to baby, which can exacerbate jaundice, and in large amounts impair baby’s growth and development.

Confinement Myth #8: Only Eat Meat And Liver

Very traditional confinement diets often heavily emphasise meat, particularly liver. The belief is that mummy has lost a lot of blood and “heat” when in childbirth and needs to replenish her “heat” by eating “heating” food like meat, liver, and herbs.

The Truth:

While these are excellent sources of protein and iron, a balanced diet during confinement is more important. Incorporating a variety of foods for a wide range of nutrients is crucial, including fruits and vegetables, as well as healthy whole grains. This holds especially true if you’re breastfeeding. Supplements can also help if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, and it is probably wise to consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist for personalized dietary recommendations where necessary.

Confinement Myth #9: No reading or crying 

Crying or reading, or even watching TV, are activities thought to cause eye problems in future, because mummy’s liver has just been weakened in childbirth. Some also oddly believe that reading, crying, or expressing emotions can negatively affect baby's temperament.

The Truth:

There is simply no scientific proof to substantiate this illogical belief. While prolonged reading or reading under poor lighting conditions may be strenuous on our eyes, there is no evidence that reading can directly damage your eyes after giving birth. Reading (if you enjoy it) and freedom of emotional expression are essential for mental well-being during confinement. In fact, crying is often a good way to release stress and tension. A happy and relaxed mother is good for baby's development too.

On a more serious note, postpartum depression (or PPD) is a real condition that affects almost 1 in 5 women, according to 2022 stats by the National Library of Medicine. Baby blues caused by hormonal fluctuations can last up to two weeks, but prolonged PPD can last beyond that for months or more. It is advisable to speak to your doctor as soon as possible if you find yourself experiencing symptoms.

Confinement Myth #10: No Praying Or Visiting Places Of Worship

Some people believe that visiting places of worship during confinement is forbidden. While this is specific to certain religions, it stems from the deeper belief that post-partum discharge or lochia is “unclean”, and new mothers are therefore “unclean”.

The Truth:

While it's important to consider and respect certain beliefs and customs, some practices can be adapted during this time and age. You may be surprised to discover that not a lot of people subscribe to such antiquated and sexist beliefs any more, and that more liberal folk would respect a new mother’s need for freedom to express worship. If in doubt, try consulting with a spiritual leader or advisor for guidance.