What precautions should be taken when postpartum women take a bath?

Postpartum bathing should be adjusted according to the mode of delivery and individual recovery status. Key precautions include controlling bathing duration, regulating water and room temperature, choosing an appropriate bathing method, protecting postpartum wounds, and ensuring adequate warmth after bathing. Scientific care can help prevent discomfort and promote recovery. Detailed recommendations are as follows:

1. Control bathing time: Bathing duration should be limited to 10–15 minutes to avoid prolonged standing, which may cause dizziness or fatigue due to physical exhaustion. Postpartum women are generally weak; extended exposure to hot water may lead to insufficient cerebral blood supply, while the enclosed bathroom environment increases the risk of oxygen deficiency and falling.

2. Regulate water and room temperature: The ideal water temperature is between 37°C and 40°C—test using the inner forearm to ensure it's not too hot. Excessively high temperatures can scald the skin and accelerate energy depletion, while water that is too cold may lead to colds. The bathroom temperature should be maintained at 24–28°C. Preheat the bathroom with a heat lamp before bathing to minimize sudden temperature changes that could shock the body.

3. Choose an appropriate bathing method: Women who had a vaginal delivery without episiotomy or tearing may take a shower 3–5 days postpartum. Those with perineal wounds or cesarean section incisions should wait until the wound has healed and sutures have been removed before showering. Until then, sponge baths with warm water are recommended for hygiene. Tub baths are strictly prohibited to prevent contaminated water from entering the vagina or wound, which could cause infection.

4. Protect postpartum wounds: Before showering, securely cover cesarean section incisions or perineal tears/episiotomies with waterproof dressings to keep the wound dry. Immediately remove the dressing after bathing, gently pat the wound and surrounding area dry with sterile gauze, apply prescribed antiseptic ointment, and maintain a clean, dry wound site.

5. Ensure warmth after bathing: Quickly dry the body thoroughly with a clean towel after bathing, paying special attention to hair, neck, and limbs. Avoid leaving wet hair loose for long periods. Use a hairdryer to dry hair promptly, wear loose and warm clothing, and drink a cup of warm water to replenish fluids and body heat, thus preventing chills.

Showering 2–3 times per week is sufficient for postpartum women. Excessive bathing may disrupt the skin’s natural protective oil layer. During the first 42 days postpartum—a critical recovery period—if symptoms such as dizziness or palpitations occur during bathing, stop immediately and rest in bed.