A qualitative study of postpartum practices and social support of Chinese mothers following childbirth in Switzerland

Abstract

Background: Asian migrants follow many traditional postpartum beliefs and practices after childbirth to protect both mother and child. Chinese mothers are often expected to stay at home for 4-6 weeks while observing certain restrictions known as postpartum confinement, or “Zuo Yue Zi.” Aim: To explore how Chinese mothers followed postpartum practices and the social support they needed while in Switzerland. Methods: Twenty-seven Chinese mothers and their families were interviewed at an average of six months postpartum. Thematic analysis was performed on the data. Results: Chinese mothers in Switzerland continued following postpartum practices, including home confinement, cold avoidance, a minimum involvement in household chores, and hot dietary consumption. Meanwhile, they modified and abandoned certain restrictions, such as avoiding prolonged bed rest or excessive high-protein diets and preserving personal hygiene. Family members were their primary supporters, while mothers from “crosscultural” families faced difficulties obtaining substantial support from their foreign partners or in-laws. Social support from independent midwives (sage femmes), privately paid helpers (yue sao), and Chinese migrant communities was important during this transitional period. Conclusion: The conventional concept of “confinement” has evolved into a more supportive approach that prioritises physical and psychological comfort. It plays a crucial role in postpartum recovery and serves as a connection with cultural identity and an opportunity for family reunions for Chinese women living abroad. There is a need for Western maternity caregivers to understand and recognise the postpartum traditions of Asian migrants and to provide them with culturally sensitive care and professional support.