TCM Postpartum Recovery

Causes from TCM Perspective

During childbirth, a significant loss of blood and energy (Qi) occurs, which weakens the body’s overall vitality. In TCM, Blood is considered to nourish the body, while Qi is essential for energy and movement. Fatigue, dizziness, weakness, and a pale complexion are common. The body may also struggle to heal, and mothers may experience difficulty with lactation due to insufficient Blood to support milk production.

2. Yin Deficiency (阴虚)

The process of pregnancy and childbirth can deplete Yin (the cooling, nourishing, and restorative aspect of the body), especially in the kidneys, which store Essence (Jing). This depletion can cause an imbalance in the body's energy. Hot flashes, night sweats, dry skin, and thirst are common symptoms of Yin deficiency. These are typically accompanied by a sense of internal heat or restlessness.

3. Blood Stasis (血瘀)

Following childbirth, especially after a traumatic delivery or cesarean section, there can be stagnation of Blood within the body due to insufficient circulation or incomplete recovery of the uterus. Pelvic pain, abdominal distension, and a dark or clotted lochia (postpartum bleeding) may occur. These symptoms indicate that the Blood is not flowing smoothly, leading to stagnation.

4. Spleen Qi Deficiency (脾气虚)

The Spleen is responsible for transforming food into Qi and Blood. During pregnancy and childbirth, the Spleen may become weak due to overexertion, poor diet, or emotional stress, especially if the mother is not properly nourished postpartum. Poor digestion, bloating, fatigue, and loss of appetite are signs of Spleen Qi deficiency. This may also affect milk production as the Spleen is responsible for creating the fluid that supports breastfeeding.

5. Kidney Essence Deficiency (肾精不足)

The Kidneys store the Essence (Jing), which is critical for growth, reproduction, and overall vitality. During pregnancy and childbirth, a significant amount of Kidney Essence is consumed, which may lead to weakness and depletion of the body's fundamental energy. Hair loss, weakness, frequent urination, lower back pain, and overall fatigue are signs of Kidney Essence depletion.

6. External Cold or Wind Invasion (外感风寒)

In TCM, the body is considered to be more vulnerable to external pathogens, like wind and cold, during the postpartum period, especially if the mother is not adequately protected from environmental factors (e.g., avoiding drafts or cold weather). Chills, body aches, and cold hands and feet are typical signs of Wind or Cold invasion. This may also cause issues like blocked milk flow, digestive problems, and postpartum pain.

7. Liver Qi Stagnation (肝气郁结)

After childbirth, emotional stress, anxiety, or the physical and mental strain of caring for a newborn can cause Liver Qi stagnation. The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, and emotional stress can interfere with this function. Irritability, mood swings, frustration, and a feeling of tightness in the chest or abdomen are signs of Liver Qi stagnation, which is often linked to postpartum depression or anxiety.

8. Excessive Dampness (湿气过重)

Postpartum women are often more prone to developing Dampness due to a weakened Spleen and digestive system, which can lead to fluid retention and poor digestion. Swelling in the legs and hands, bloating, and a feeling of heaviness are signs of Dampness accumulation in the body.