What Is the 40-Day Rule for Newborns?
Why This Ancient Practice Still Matters for Modern Moms
If you’re a new or expecting parent, you might have heard of the 40-day rule after birth—a time-honored practice rooted in many cultures around the world. But what exactly is it? Is it still relevant today? And how can this rule actually support your healing and your baby’s development?
Let’s break it down.
What Is the 40-Day Rule for Newborns?
The 40-day rule refers to the traditional postpartum rest period where the birthing parent and baby stay home, rest, and recover for approximately six weeks (about 40 days) after birth.
Also known as:
“La Cuarentena” in Latinx culture
“Sitting the Month” or 坐月子 (zuò yuè zi) in Chinese tradition
“Chilla” in South Asian cultures
“The Lying-In Period” in Western history
The focus of this sacred time is healing, bonding, nourishment, and protection.
Why 40 Days?
There’s both cultural wisdom and medical reasoning behind this timeline:
The uterus takes about 6 weeks to return to its pre-pregnancy size
Hormones stabilize during this period, reducing the risk of postpartum mood disorders
Breastfeeding becomes more established by the 4–6 week mark
Your body needs time to repair tissues, rebuild iron levels, and regain energy
What Happens During the 40 Days?
Traditionally, the birthing parent:
Stays mostly indoors
Avoids housework or stress
Focuses on resting, eating warm foods, and caring for the baby
Is supported by a village of helpers (family, midwives, doulas, or postpartum nurses)
Some modern parents choose to adapt this period by:
Limiting visitors
Hiring a postpartum care provider
Prepping nourishing meals ahead of time
Creating a peaceful, low-stimulation home environment
What About the Baby?
For newborns, the 40-day period is a time of adjustment to life outside the womb. During this window:
Their immune system is still developing
They thrive in close contact with the birthing parent
Gentle routines of feeding, bonding, and soothing help build security
Limiting outings reduces germ exposure while their immunity matures
Is the 40-Day Rule Still Relevant Today?
Absolutely—but it looks different for every family.
In our fast-paced society, many parents feel pressured to “bounce back” quickly. But honoring a longer recovery window can reduce:
Physical complications (like bleeding or pelvic floor issues)
Breastfeeding struggles
Anxiety, overwhelm, and postpartum depression
The feeling of “doing it all” alone
Modern research aligns with what ancestral wisdom knew all along: Resting and receiving care in the first 6 weeks sets the stage for long-term wellness.
You Don’t Have to Do the 40 Days Alone
Even if you don’t have extended family nearby or can’t take a full 40 days to rest, you can still honor the spirit of this tradition:
Ask for help—or better yet, schedule it
Prioritize nourishing food, hydration, and gentle movement
Hire a postpartum care expert who can guide, support, and help you heal
Ready for Real Support During Your First 40 Days?
As a postpartum nurse with over 10 years of experience, I support families across the Bay Area with in-home, personalized care that bridges tradition and modern needs. From newborn feeding support to maternal healing and emotional care—I’m here to walk alongside you.
Contact me now for a free discovery call today and let’s talk about what your first 40 days can really feel like—with less stress and more support.
