Delivering a baby is a life-changing experience that requires immense emotional, mental, and physical effort. After birth, both the new mother and her baby require special postnatal care. At Utpala Ayurdhama, our Soothika Paricharya (Ayurvedic postnatal care) provides a comprehensive and holistic approach, guiding new mothers through specific dietary guidelines, lifestyle adjustments, and health care practices that support a smooth recovery and well-being for both mother and child.
The postpartum period is critical because the new mother is in a weakened state, having provided nourishment and energy to her baby throughout pregnancy. This exertion, combined with blood loss during delivery, leaves the body vulnerable and sensitive. At Utpala Ayurdhama, we offer specialized remedies and treatments that strengthen the mother’s body, restore her mental and physical balance, and ensure a smooth transition into motherhood.
Why is Postnatal Care Important in Ayurveda?
According to Ayurveda, the first 45 days after delivery lay the foundation for the health of both the mother and baby for the next 45 years. Postnatal care (Soothika Paricharya) focuses on boosting immunity, promoting fast healing, and improving breast milk production while restoring the mother’s physical strength. Proper postnatal care helps the mother regain her pre-pregnancy health and prevents common postpartum issues such as back pain, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
Three Postpartum Phases
The three sensitive postpartum phases of Soothika Paricharya at Utpala Ayurdhama include:
- First 10 days: Special care is provided to the new mother, focusing on recovery from the physical exhaustion of childbirth and managing postpartum bleeding.
- First 45 days: During this phase, the focus is on helping the uterus contract and return to its normal size while supporting the mother with proper diet, medications, and body care to ensure sufficient breast milk production.
- Until menstruation resumes: In this final phase, attention is given to behavior, diet, and lifestyle to ensure the continued health of both mother and baby. This helps balance hormones and facilitates a smooth return to menstruation.
Ayurvedic Diet for Postnatal Care
In postnatal care, a nourishing Ayurvedic diet is essential to support recovery, boost energy levels, and promote milk production. Some of the dietary recommendations include:
- Sesame oil and clarified butter (ghee) mixed with herbal ingredients to aid digestion and restore strength.
- Rice gruel and medicated milk with herbs like Vidharigandhadi Gana or Panchkola for the first week.
- Jaggery water to replenish energy and promote faster healing.
- Fenugreek (Methi) for uterine recovery and enhanced breast milk quality.
- Shatavari Kalpa in milk to support lactation and overall recovery.
- Panchamrut with almonds for enhanced nutrition passed to the baby through breast milk.
Ayurvedic Treatments for Soothika Paricharya
At Utpala Ayurdhama, we offer a range of treatments to ensure comprehensive postnatal care:
- Daily Oil Massage: A full-body oil massage helps strengthen the waist, back, and breasts, enhancing the body’s natural recovery.
- Covering the Ears: Protecting the ears from cold air and wind to prevent vitiation of Vata dosha.
- Healing Foods: Ghee, fenugreek seeds, and medicinal herbs are provided to restore energy and promote recovery.
- Milk and Herbal Supplements: Herbal formulations like Shatavari Kalpa and Panchamrut support lactation and nourish the mother.
- Medicinal Herbal Baths: Special herbal decoctions are used for bathing to rejuvenate the body and promote healing.
Do’s and Don’ts for Postnatal Care
Do’s:
- Daily massage with Vatahara oil.
- Warm baths with medicated water.
- Keeping the body, especially the breasts and perineum, clean and hygienic.
- Breastfeeding regularly.
Don’ts:
- Avoid strenuous physical activities and heavy exercises.
- Avoid emotional stress such as anger or depression, which may affect lactation.
- Avoid cold or spicy foods that can delay recovery.
- Refrain from consuming alcohol, caffeine, or nicotine, as these can harm the baby through breast milk.
Benefits of Soothika Paricharya
The comprehensive postnatal care provided by Utpala Ayurdhama offers numerous benefits, including:
- Regaining muscle strength and reducing back pain.
- Improved digestion and metabolism.
- Weight loss and body toning.
- Effective lactation and breast milk production.
- Faster recovery of the uterus and overall health.
- Restoring radiant skin and reducing pigmentation caused by hormonal changes.
Conclusion
At Utpala Ayurdhama, we are committed to offering holistic postnatal care for new mothers and their babies through Soothika Paricharya. Our expert team provides a peaceful and supportive environment, personalized diet charts, and therapeutic treatments to ensure a healthy recovery. Visit Utpala Ayurdhama to experience the profound benefits of our Ayurvedic postnatal care, and give your body the care it deserves after childbirth.