In the United States, postpartum care is often brief, inconsistent, and largely left to the mother to navigate. A few follow-up appointments. General guidance. And then a return to normal life. But in many parts of the world, postpartum recovery is treated very differently. Not as a short recovery window. But as a critical phase that deserves time, structure, and support.
In Many Asian Cultures, Recovery Is Protected Time
In several Asian countries, postpartum recovery is treated as a distinct and essential period of healing. In China, this is often referred to as “sitting the month”; a period of rest and recovery that typically lasts around 30 to 40 days. During this time, mothers are encouraged to:
• rest extensively
• avoid strenuous activity
• receive support with meals and household tasks
• focus on healing and bonding with their baby
In South Korea, postpartum care centers known as “sanhujoriwon” provide structured environments where mothers receive meals, rest, and professional support during the early weeks after birth.
In Japan, it is common for new mothers to stay with family members after birth, allowing them to recover with support rather than managing everything alone.
These approaches are rooted in a shared understanding: Recovery requires protection.
In Europe, Rehabilitation Is Standard
In parts of Europe, postpartum recovery includes structured rehabilitation. In France, pelvic floor therapy is commonly prescribed after childbirth. Women receive guided sessions to restore strength, coordination, and function. Rather than assuming the body will return to normal on its own, the system builds recovery into care. This reflects a different expectation: Recovery is something that is supported — not assumed.
In Nordic Countries, Care Comes Home
In countries like Sweden and Norway, postpartum care extends beyond the hospital. New mothers often receive home visits from midwives or nurses in the days and weeks after birth. These visits may include:
• physical health assessments
• breastfeeding support
• mental health screening
• guidance for newborn care
This model recognizes something essential: Postpartum recovery happens at home. And care should meet mothers where they are.
In Parts of Africa, Community Is the Care System
In many regions across Africa, postpartum care is deeply community-centered. Extended family and community members often step in to support the mother during the early weeks after birth. Daily responsibilities like cooking, cleaning, childcare for older children may be taken on by others so the mother can rest and recover. In countries like Nigeria and Ghana, traditional postpartum practices emphasize:
• rest and recovery
• warmth and nourishment
• hands-on support from experienced women in the community
These systems may not always be formalized within healthcare structures, but they serve an important function: They ensure the mother is not alone.
In South America, Recovery Is Slower and Supported
In parts of South America, postpartum recovery is also approached with a greater emphasis on rest and gradual reintegration into daily life. In countries like Brazil, the postpartum period often referred to as “resguardo” is treated as a time of physical and behavioral care. Mothers are encouraged to:
• limit physical strain
• rest and heal
• receive support from family networks
There is an understanding that the body is still vulnerable during this time and should not be pushed too quickly.
A Shared Understanding Across Cultures
Despite differences in how care is delivered, many countries share a common perspective: Postpartum recovery is not something a mother should manage alone. It is a period that requires: Time. Support. Follow-up. In the United States, much of that responsibility falls on the individual. Mothers are expected to: figure out what is normal, identify when something is wrong, seek out care on their own. All while recovering, sleep-deprived, and caring for a newborn.
What the U.S. Can Learn
The United States does not need to replicate any one system exactly. But there are clear lessons to take from these models:
• recovery should be treated as a defined and protected period
• rehabilitation should be standard, not optional
• support should extend beyond clinical settings
• community and family support should be recognized as part of care
• postpartum care should continue beyond the early weeks
These are not radical ideas. They are already in practice around the world.
Expanding the Standard of Care
Improving postpartum care in the United States does not require starting from scratch. It requires looking outward. Understanding what is already working. And asking a simple question: What would it look like if we treated postpartum recovery as essential not optional?