Can you take a bath and wash your hair after 28 days of postpartum confinement?
Generally speaking, it is acceptable to take showers and wash hair after 28 days of postpartum confinement. According to the typical recovery pattern following childbirth, by the 28th day post-delivery, most women have entered a stable phase of postpartum recovery, during which bathing and hair washing are considered safe. The details are as follows:
During the postpartum confinement period, mothers can begin washing their hair and taking baths once their bodies have largely recovered. For women who delivered vaginally, bathing and hair washing may generally resume around 7 days after delivery, when physical recovery is mostly complete. However, for those who underwent cesarean section, it is recommended to wait 14 to 21 days before washing hair or bathing, as cesarean delivery involves greater physical trauma and slower recovery compared to vaginal birth. By day 28, whether delivery was vaginal or via cesarean section, the body's functions are typically in a stable state, making bathing and hair washing appropriate at this time.
In addition, mothers should use warm water when bathing, keep bath time moderate, ensure good ventilation in the bathroom, and avoid tub baths. Since the uterine cervix requires time to heal, showering is preferred over soaking in a tub. After washing hair, it is important to thoroughly dry the hair with a hair dryer to prevent catching a cold or developing a chill. Furthermore, personal hygiene should be carefully maintained after childbirth—especially cleanliness and dryness—and loose, breathable underwear should be worn to help prevent infections.
The timing of hair washing can be adjusted according to individual circumstances, and specific guidance from a healthcare provider is recommended. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention should be sought, and treatment should be carried out under professional medical supervision to support optimal recovery.