Debunking 5 Commonly Heard Postpartum Myths

The process of giving birth is purely magical. However, the period post-delivery could also be challenging if you are surrounded by some commonly perceived myths, traditions, and superstitions. 

In this article, we will bust some commonly perceived postpartum myths for all you new mothers embracing motherhood!

Myth #1: New mothers should not drink a lot of water after delivery

This is false. Water intake is extremely crucial as it helps the body function well. New mothers also tend to sweat a lot along with producing milk, and hence it is important for them to stay hydrated.

Myth #2: Avoid foods that are “hot” or “cold”

This is again false. A new mother should eat all types of foods - whether hot or cold. The body needs a variety of nutrients after giving birth to a baby, hence, you should have a well-balanced, high nutrition intake diet, without the inclusion of any unnecessary calories.

Myth #3: No breastfeeding when the mother is sick

Infection cannot be transmitted to your baby via breastfeeding. So, there is no harm in doing so, even when you are sick. In fact, breastfeeding when sick helps the mother transfer antibodies to the baby. 

Myth #4: Eating ghee post delivery strengthens your joint

Ghee only acts as grease, allowing easy and pain-free mobility of the joints. But there is no relationship between ghee and joint pain or joint strength. During pregnancy, a mother’s body releases a hormone called “relaxin” whose function is to relax the joints in preparation for the birth. Even after the delivery, the effect of this hormone takes a while to come off. Your joint strength will make it come back with time. In fact, excessive ghee consumption might lead to weight gain, risk of heart problems, rise in cholesterol levels and so on.  

Myth #5: Every new mother gets postpartum depression

Only a small percentage of new mothers get postpartum depression. This myth is misleading because people confuse postpartum depression with postpartum blues, which are different. Postpartum blues are associated with the emotions of empathy, changes in mood, and stress. Women usually naturally overcome these. Only if these emotions are prolonged could they lead to depression.

As it's rightly said, ‘Time Heals Everything’, even postpartum recovery has its challenges. It is normal to feel your body not healing as quickly as you want. It's essential to eat, sleep, and care for your baby, stay happy in the present moment, and enjoy the beauty of motherhood!