Childbirth is a joyous moment. After approximately 9 months, you can now finally hold your baby, admire their likeness to you (or your partner), and play with them. But, as much as giving birth is a happy event, it’s also physically and mentally stressful. That’s why mothers are often worried about binat sa panganganak. Here’s what you need to know about it.

What is Binat sa Panganganak?

The closest translation to binat is relapse.

It happens when your sickness “returns” while you’re in the middle of recovery. Note that in most cases, the illness isn’t back at full force – binat indicates that you’re recovering just fine, but then something halted your recovery, and now you’re experiencing some symptoms again. Still, there’s a risk that a simple binat can progress into serious complications.

Now, binat sa panganganak has an almost similar concept, although it doesn’t have a specific English translation or medical term. Childbirth, after all, is a strenuous ordeal and a major operation, particularly if you delivered your baby via C-section. Depending on what halted your recovery, you might experience various complications, like infection, hemorrhoids, bleeding, and even depression.

How do you prevent binat sa panganganak?

Binat sa Panganganak: Prevention

The tips to prevent binat sa panganganak range from avoiding trimming your nails and cutting your hair to delaying taking a bath. But what measures can you take to prevent relapse and hasten your recovery?

Take It Easy

First on our list of tips to prevent binat sa panganganak is to take it easy.

Unlike common illnesses, such as the flu, giving birth needs more than just a few days of recovery. In fact, most mothers need about 6 to 8 weeks before they finally feel well.

After giving birth, avoid strenuous exercises and activities. Don’t lift heavy objects and refrain from staying up late at night. This is why you need to plan your maternity leave.

Of course, you also need to move mildly. Ask your doctor about appropriate physical activity while you’re recovering They might recommend light walking, spending some time outdoors, some pelvic floor exercises, and abdominal stretches.

Be Careful With Bathing

Next, be careful when taking a bath.

Some people might tell you that you should refrain from bathing or soaking after birth because it can cause binat. But the truth is, you might be able to bathe as soon as you’re able to.

Bathing helps keep your body and wound clean. Talk to your doctor about it. You need to consider the type of wound you have and the stitches, glue, or staples used to close them. Learn more about taking a bath after birth here:

Eat Nutritious Foods

Some people might tell you to avoid fish and meat because they are “malansa.” The truth is, lean meat, such as beef, poultry, fatty fish, and eggs, are among the recommended sources of protein.

Of course, if you’re breastfeeding, you might want to avoid certain fish because of their mercury content.

Besides healthy sources of protein, you also need carbohydrates, fiber, iron, and healthy fats.

Take Care Of Your Mental Health

Finally, take care of your mental health. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it, and monitor how you feel daily. Also, be mindful of the symptoms of baby blues and postpartum depression (mood swings, anxiety, feeling overwhelmed, etc.)

If you need help with your mental health, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your doctor.

Don’t Fall For Myths

Because binat is such a popular concept in Filipino culture, you might encounter some myths. At best, these myths are unhelpful, but at worst, they can be dangerous.

For instance, some people advise new mothers against trimming their nails after giving birth. There’s no scientific evidence for this.

The truth is, trimming your nails helps keep your hands clean – an important part of preventing infection, especially when you’re handling your wound.

If you are in doubt about some traditions, it’s best to talk to your doctor about them.

Key Takeaways

Binat sa panganganak means you have a relapse of some of your symptoms or developed new ones right in the middle of recovery.

Watch closely for signs that you’re not recovering as you should. For instance, monitor the appearance of your wound, the amount of your vaginal discharge, your weight, and your pain.

Working closely with your doctor regarding aspects, like nutrition, exercise, hygiene and wound care, and mental health will help prevent binat sa panganganak.

Learn more about Postpartum Selfcare here.