Supporting fourth trimester with TCM

Link copied! Bringing a child into the world marks a significant, life-altering journey, both physically and emotionally. It’s a time of profound changes, not only for the newborn adapting to life outside the womb but also for the new mother adjusting to her new role. While the focus understandably shifts to the infant, the 12 weeks following childbirth, known as the “fourth trimester,” are equally pivotal for a mother’s well-being. The fourth trimester spans the initial 12 weeks after childbirth. Throughout pregnancy, the body undergoes extensive physiological and hormonal changes, such as a surge in oestrogen and progesterone to support the baby’s development. Similarly, postpartum, the body experiences a significant transformation to return to its pre-pregnancy state. It is crucial for mothers to prioritise their well-being just as they did during pregnancy because healthy babies thrive with healthy, well-adjusted mothers. Moreover, this postpartum period includes a traditional practice known as the confinement period. In many cultures, confinement refers to a designated time frame after birth when the mother receives specialised care. This typically includes a specific diet, rest, and limited physical activity to aid in the mother’s recovery. Embracing this period can provide ample time for rest and healing, allowing the mother to rejuvenate and strengthen her body for the demands of motherhood ahead. By nurturing themselves during this time, mothers can better equip themselves for the challenges of caring for their newborns. In essence, prioritising maternal well-being during the fourth trimester is a vital investment in the health and happiness of both mother and child. TCM’s Perspective on Fourth Trimester From a TCM perspective, the postpartum recovery period typically spans six weeks inclusive of the confinement period, beginning with the expulsion of the placenta until all organs, except the mammary glands, return to their pre-pregnancy state. After the delivery of your little one, mummies are usually more susceptible to 2 states of imbalances: 1) Qi and/or Blood deficiency, and/or2) Blood stagnation TCM views the Qi or energy and the Blood constituents as the basis of the human body. The imbalances of these two components will lead to the formation and manifestation of many diseases such as postpartum hives and De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis (mommy wrist). Hence, an old Chinese saying goes “吃的好，睡的好，不如月子坐的好” which translates to “Eat well, sleep well, nothing is better than sitting the month well”, implying the importance of confinement in Chinese Culture. Hence, the primary goal of confinement is to aid mothers in recuperating from childbirth by rebalancing their Qi and Blood through dietary and lifestyle adjustments. This not only protects mothers from future health issues but also restores their strength. It is essential to recognise that TCM’s approach to the fourth trimester goes beyond mere confinement practices. It encompasses a holistic perspective that emphasises the overall well-being of mothers during this crucial period. In contemporary times, TCM practitioners adapt traditional principles to suit modern lifestyles while preserving the core essence of postpartum recovery. Consider Oriental Remedies x Wing Joo Loong confinement soup package swhich are tailored for modern moms in Singapore! Shop online for Essential or Premium Packages Caring for mom in the fourth trimester Emotional Well-being (e.g. Postpartum depression and anxiety) Postpartum mummies often face mental and emotional challenges, including the risk of postnatal depression. After delivery, the sudden drop in the hormonal levels may bring about “baby or postnatal blues” for the first couple of days and can turn into postnatal depression when symptoms start to aggravate and last for more than 2 weeks[1] . Contrary to what most know, postnatal depression can also start at any time during the first year postpartum [2]. According to a study by KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), postnatal depression affects one in 14 women while antenatal depression affects one in eight women pre-COVID-19 [3]. The pandemic has contributed to the rising incidence of maternal depression [4]. TCM recognizes the importance of a healthy support system for mummies during this period as adequate rest and emotional care are vital components of TCM practices to ensure a balanced mental state while caring for the little one. An example would be breastfeeding, while rewarding, could be a plausible cause of anxiety in mummies, impacting their mental well-being. How can TCM help: From a TCM perspective, females rely heavily on the supply and circulation of Liver Blood for physiological functions such as menstruation, pregnancy, labour and breastfeeding. Childbirth is extremely taxing on the Liver and breastfeeding will further deplete Blood as nutrients are transformed into breast milk. Furthermore, the Liver plays an important role in the regulation of emotions through the regulation of Qi. A deficiency and stagnation of Qi could result in the inability to manage one’s emotions properly, evoking negative emotions and thoughts. Herbal medication and acupuncture are often prescribed to calm the body and rebalance the meridians. Classical herbal formulas such as 逍遥散 (Xiao Yao San), and 天王补心丹 (Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan) could be prescribed to address both the root and symptom of postpartum anxiety. However, if you are concerned about taking herbs and nursing, you can opt for our Cell Pro Therapy, which aims to rebalance our autonomic nervous system, which is linked to our “fight or flight” response. This helps recalibrate the brain to bring their mental state to a more peaceful one. It is recommended to come for 2-3 sessions per week for maximum effect on the body. If one is unable to come for consistent treatment, acupressure massages on points such as 太冲 (Tai Chong) LR3, 印堂 (Yin Tang) GV29, 血海 (Xue Hai) SP10 can help alleviate some of the symptoms. To locate 太冲 (Tai Chong) LR3: Tender point between the big toe and the second toe. To locate 印堂 (Yin Tang) GV29: It is located at the midway point between the two inner sides of the eyebrows To locate 血海 (Xue Hai) SP10: It is located 2 thumbs above and on the inner side of the patella. You should be able to feel the bulge of the quadriceps muscle on

Diastasis Recti – Can TCM help?

Link copied! Diastasis recti is the partial or complete separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, also known as the “abdominal muscle” or simply the “abs”. Diastasis recti is very common during pregnancy or postpartum due to the stretching of the “abs” when the uterus expands during pregnancy.[1] Symptoms of Diastasis Recti Normal abdomen (left) Diastasis Recti (right) Front view of woman measuring the distance for Diastasis Recti Symptoms of Diastasis Recti often manifest with a noticeable bulge in the stomach, creating the appearance commonly referred to as a “mummy tummy.” Additional symptoms may include a soft or jelly-like sensation around the belly button, the occurrence of coning or doming when abdominal muscles are engaged or contracted, challenges in lifting objects, lower back pain, compromised posture, and issues such as constipation or bloating. Identifying these symptoms is crucial for early recognition and appropriate management of diastasis recti. [2] Causes of Diastasis Recti and its Risk Factors The primary cause of Diastasis Recti is the exertion of excessive inner-abdominal pressure. This often occurs during pregnancy, particularly when pushing during delivery. Additional risk factors contributing to the development of Diastasis Recti include chronic straining, a family history of the condition, improper lifting techniques, and engaging in exercises that involve excessive abdominal loading.[3] Self-assessment for Diastasis Recti [4] Lie on your back with your feet flat on the floor/bed and your knees bent. Place your fingers in a horizontal line in the centre of your abdomen, just above the belly button. Tuck your chin down onto your chest and round your shoulders forward slightly off the floor/bed. This will increase the tension in your abdominal muscles. It is not a sit up. Gently try to feel the edges of your abdominal muscles. With this increased tension, assess how many fingers fit into the gap between the two bands of muscles. A separation of 2.5cm (two to three fingers) is considered normal. Immediately after delivery, the gap can be wider, which is also normal. If the gap is more than three fingers or you notice persistent “doming,” it is advisable to discuss your concerns with your doctor for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care recommendations.[4] Treating Diastasis Recti with TCM i. Acupuncture Diastasis Recti, characterised by the partial or complete separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, is viewed in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a muscle condition. According to TCM principles, the health and development of our muscles and tissues are governed by the “Spleen“. The “Spleen” is also one of our body’s major organs that is essential to a healthy digestive system. Our stomach muscles have four meridians or channels that run through our abdomen. These channels carry our body’s circulation – Blood and Qi, which is the TCM concept of our body’s vital energy. Acupuncture can help unblock areas of stagnation, promote Blood and Qi circulation and restore the healthy flow of blood and energy through the meridians. Increasing the proper function of these meridians can help heal and strengthen our abdominal muscles.[5] There is evidence suggesting that acupuncture, along with physical training, may be effective in treating postpartum diastasis recti [6]. Additionally, research indicates that electro-acupuncture can be a beneficial approach for improving postpartum Diastasis Recti symptoms [7]. Acupuncture focuses on specific acupoints to enhance the flow of Qi and Blood in our “Conception vessel”, “Stomach,” and “Spleen.” Examples of these acupoints include 中脘 Zhong Wan (CV12), 下脘 Xia Wan (CV10), 气海 Qi Hai (CV6), 天枢 Tian Shu (ST25), 大横 Da Heng (SP15), 足三里 Zu San li (ST36), and 三阴交 San Yin Jiao (SP6). These acupoints are strategically selected to support the restoration of balance and energy flow in the affected areas, contributing to the management of Diastasis Recti. ii. Electro-Lymphatic Therapy (ELT) ELT is a painless and non-invasive therapy that stimulates better lymphatic flow and drainage and enhances overall blood circulation. Improved blood circulation promotes healing by strengthening the abdominal muscles. This condition is sometimes accompanied by lower back pain and digestive issues like constipation and bloating. Enhanced circulation can help promote the body’s natural healing processes and relieve associated discomforts. iiii. Cell Pro Therapy Cell Pro Therapy introduces negative ions, which are negatively charged particles with antioxidant properties, to our body. These negative ions play a role in enhancing the body’s self-defence mechanism by improving our body’s ability to repair itself. It can also improve cell oxygenation to enhance immunity, cellular function, and cellular metabolism. These combined effects support the recovery of abdominal muscles, making Cell Pro Therapy a comprehensive approach to promoting overall well-being and the healing process. iv. Far-infrared Therapy (FIR) Far-Infrared Therapy (FIR) elevates skin temperature and penetrates deeper layers of our body, promoting blood circulation and muscle relaxation. The improved circulation and relaxation of muscles can help promote muscle recovery. Read more about What is Far-Infrared Therapy (FIR) And What Does It Do? Dietary & lifestyle recommendations It’s essential to be cautious of movements that push the abdominal wall forward, as they can exacerbate damage to your abdominals. Be mindful of how you are using your abdominals as you go about your day. Exercises to avoid Crunches or sit-ups of any kind. Planks or push-ups (unless using modifications). Downward dog, boat pose and other yoga poses. Double leg lifts, scissors and other Pilates moves. Any exercise that causes your abdominals to bulge, cone or dome.[8] Things to avoid holding your baby on one hip. lifting or carrying heavy loads. coughing without supporting your ab muscles. [9] Adhering to these guidelines will support the healing process and contribute to the effective recovery of your abdominal muscles. Self care tips – Early Stage Exercises (Post-partum) i. Abdominal breathing (You can do this exercise lying down with knees bent, sitting or standing) Rest one hand on your tummy and take a deep breath in. As you breathe out, draw in/tighten your pelvic floor muscles and your abdominal muscles. As you breathe in, relax your pelvic floor muscles and your abdominal muscles. Repeat up to 10 times. Example of abdominal