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What is Postnatal Care
Postnatal care, also known as postpartum care, is the care provided to both the mother and her newborn baby immediately after childbirth and continues for the first six weeks of the baby’s life
It’s a continuation of the care mothers receive during pregnancy, labour, and delivery, but with a focus on promoting a healthy recovery for mothers and a smooth transition for their babies into the world.
In Malaysia, many families observe traditional “confinement” practices alongside modern medical practices. However, proper postnatal care is vital for mothers’ well-being.
Related: What is Confinement in Pregnancy: Multicultural Confinement Practices in Malaysia
Importance of Postnatal Care
Postnatal care goes beyond immediate physical recovery. It addresses the mother’s mental and emotional well-being, equips them with essential skills for caring for their babies, and promotes long-term health.
A recent study reveals that a significant number of women experience lasting health issues like pain, incontinence, anxiety, and depression after childbirth.
This is why postnatal care plays a vital role in identifying these concerns early on and offering the necessary support to address them.
This comprehensive guide will explore the various aspects of postnatal care available in Malaysia, what to expect during check-ups and the importance of prioritizing your health during this crucial time.
Types of Postnatal Care Available in Malaysia
There are several options available for postnatal care in Malaysia, catering to different needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:
Government Hospital Follow-Up
After giving birth, whether at a hospital, Alternative Birthing Centre (ABC), or even at home, it’s important to notify the nearest health clinic. You’ll be scheduled for follow-up check-ups at government health clinics. Learn more about it here.
These check-ups typically occur within the first few days after birth, followed by appointments at specific intervals throughout the six-week period. During these visits, healthcare professionals will monitor your recovery, check on your baby’s development, and answer any questions you may have.
In-Home Confinement Care
For a more traditional approach, consider in-home confinement care. Here, a confinement nanny (a.k.a confinement lady) specializing in postnatal care provides support in your own home. These experienced caregivers assist with daily tasks like bathing and preparing special meals for mothers, offer emotional support, and take care of your newborn with bathing, diaper changes, and umbilical cord care.
Additionally, they may handle light housework, allowing you to prioritize rest and recovery during this crucial time. Remember, confinement nannies’ qualifications can vary, so it is recommended that you interview and check their experience.
Learn More: Confinement Centres Vs. Home-Based Confinement
Postnatal Care Centres
If you prefer a more comprehensive and pampering experience, private postnatal care centres are an option. These centres offer a range of services, including professional medical care for both mother and baby, comfortable accommodations, meal preparation, and sometimes even laundry services.
Some confinement centres like Joie Confinement even offer comprehensive postpartum recovery programmes. This option allows you to focus entirely on recovery, helping you regain your confidence and bond with your baby.
Learn More: What is a Confinement Centre
What to Expect During Postnatal Care
Whether you opt for hospital follow-up, in-home confinement care, or a postnatal care centre, your postnatal care experience will likely involve check-ups that focus on both you and your newborn.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
Mother’s Care
- Physical Examinations: Nurses or healthcare professionals will monitor your recovery by checking your vital signs, assessing any surgical wounds or stitches, and monitoring your overall physical well-being.
- Mental and Emotional Well-being: Postpartum depression and anxiety are common concerns. During check-ups, you’ll be screened for these conditions and offered support and resources if needed.
- Breastfeeding Support: Healthcare professionals will provide guidance and support to ensure successful breastfeeding initiation and address any challenges you may face.
Learn more about Joie Confinement’s postnatal care for mom
Baby’s Care
- Weight and Growth Monitoring: Regular monitoring of your baby’s weight and growth is crucial to ensure healthy development.
- Jaundice Checks: Newborns are susceptible to jaundice, a condition that causes the skin to turn yellow. If necessary, checks will be conducted to identify and address jaundice.
- Umbilical Cord Care: Nurses will provide instructions and monitor the healing process of your baby’s umbilical cord.
- Immunizations Schedule: You’ll receive information about your baby’s upcoming immunization schedule and the importance of timely vaccinations.
Learn more about Joie Confinement’s newborn care services
Also Read: What You Need for Postpartum Care
Traditional Confinement Practices in Malaysia
In Malaysia, postnatal care is often interwoven with traditional practices observed by different ethnicities. These practices, passed down through generations, are believed to promote healing and well-being for the mother after childbirth.
Here’s a breakdown of some common themes:
- Use of Traditional Herbs and Massage: Utilize specific herbs and massage techniques believed to aid recovery and well-being. For instance, Malay postnatal massage is known to promote relaxation and overall comfort. Joie Confinement offers traditional Malay postpartum massages as well.
- Confinement Period: All ethnicities observe a confinement period, although the duration can vary. During this time, the mother focuses on rest, recovery, and bonding with the baby. Restrictions on activities are often implemented to facilitate this focus.
- Dietary Practices: Each group has specific dietary practices believed to be essential for postpartum recovery. These practices often centre around balancing the body’s supposed “hot” and “cold” elements through food choices.
- Hot and Cold Practices: Traditional beliefs emphasize maintaining or restoring balance within the body using hot and cold practices. This might involve using hot compresses to promote healing or avoiding certain foods considered “cold” according to these traditions.
Learn more about the confinement practices among different ethnic groups in Malaysia
Long-Term Health Conditions After Childbirth
While the focus of postnatal care is often on immediate recovery, it’s crucial to be aware of potential long-term health conditions that can arise after childbirth.
Here are some conditions to be mindful of.
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| Pelvic and Lower Back Pain | Experiencing pain, especially in the pelvic region and lower back, is not uncommon after childbirth. This lower back pain can last up to a year after childbirth. It commonly occurs during activities like walking or carrying a baby. While the pain can persist for a long time, it often improves with rest, exercise, and home treatments. Learn more about postpartum back pain |
| Urinary Incontinence | Difficulty controlling urine or stool leakage can occur due to childbirth-related changes. It is common for moms to leak pee after having a baby. According to this study, about 1 in 3 moms leak pee in the first 3 months after having a baby. It’s more common for moms who deliver vaginally than moms who have a cesarean section. Leakage happens less often as time goes on. |
| Anxiety and Depression | Postpartum depression and anxiety are real concerns that can affect both mothers and fathers. Early identification and seeking professional help are essential. Learn more about postpartum depression. |
If you experience any of these conditions, or any other concerns after childbirth, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Talk to your doctor or midwife. They can assess your situation and recommend appropriate treatment options. Remember, prioritizing your health is critical for your long-term well-being and your ability to effectively care for your baby.
Additionally, you can find more info and help from the official MyHEALTH Portal from the Ministry of Health in Malaysia.
Embrace a Joyful Postpartum that You and Your Baby Deserve
Postnatal care is a crucial investment in your health and well-being after childbirth. It equips you with the knowledge and support you need to recover physically and emotionally while nurturing a strong bond with your newborn. Whether you choose hospital follow-up, in-home confinement care, or a postnatal care centre, prioritize seeking professional guidance and support during this important time.
Remember, prioritizing your health allows you to be the best possible parent for your baby. Don’t hesitate to address any concerns you may have – your healthcare provider is there to guide you.
If you are looking for a comprehensive and pampering postnatal experience, Joie Confinement Center offers personalized care plans, comfortable accommodations, and experienced staff to ensure a smooth and relaxing recovery for you. Contact Joie Confinement Center today to learn more about our confinement services.
