What are the taboos for a postpartum woman on the day she completes her one-month confinement period?

Nov 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
On the day a woman completes her one-month postpartum period, she should avoid intense physical activity, exposure to cold and drafts, spicy or stimulating foods, excessive fatigue, and sitting baths or soaking in bathtubs. These precautions should be followed according to individual recovery progress to protect postpartum health. If symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, abdominal pain, or bleeding occur on that day, prompt medical attention is recommended. The pelvic floor muscles, uterus, and other organs have not yet fully recovered after childbirth.

On the day a woman completes her postpartum month, there are several taboos to observe: avoid strenuous exercise, exposure to cold or drafts, spicy and stimulating foods, excessive fatigue, and sitting baths or soaking in bathtubs. These precautions should be followed according to individual recovery progress to protect postnatal health. If symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, abdominal pain, or abnormal bleeding occur on that day, prompt medical attention is recommended.

1. Avoid strenuous exercise: The pelvic floor muscles and uterus have not fully recovered after childbirth. Strenuous activity may worsen pelvic floor muscle laxity, lead to uterine prolapse, or cause wound tearing. Only mild activities such as walking are recommended.

2. Avoid exposure to cold or drafts: Postpartum women have weakened immune systems. Exposure to cold air or drafts can easily lead to colds or joint pain. Direct exposure to air conditioning or fans should be avoided, and protection is necessary when coming into contact with cold water to prevent invasion of cold pathogens.

3. Avoid spicy and stimulating foods: Spicy foods may irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to constipation or diarrhea. They may also affect breastfed infants through breast milk, causing digestive discomfort. The diet should focus on light, easily digestible foods.

4. Avoid overexertion: Although the body has partially recovered by the one-month mark, excessive fatigue can impair the restoration of qi and blood, potentially worsening dizziness and fatigue, and even prolonging lochia discharge. Adequate rest must be ensured.

5. Avoid sitting baths or soaking in bathtubs: The cervix has not fully closed after childbirth. Sitting baths or soaking in tubs may allow bacteria to enter the uterine cavity and cause infection. Showers are recommended instead, with bathing time kept moderate and water temperature maintained at a comfortable level.

On the one-month postpartum day, it's important to balance rest and activity—getting sufficient bed rest while engaging in moderate movement. Nutrition should include high-quality protein and fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure a balanced diet. Proper warmth should be maintained, with clothing adjusted according to ambient temperature. Personal hygiene, especially keeping the perineal area clean and dry, is essential to support full recovery.