Postpartum Herbal Steaming: Effectiveness and Risks Explained by Experts

A perception is spreading among postpartum women that steaming with herbs like bồ kết (Galla Chinensis), green tea, and other medicinal plants can effectively cleanse postpartum discharge and tighten the vagina. However, Dr. Đồng Thu Trang from Hanoi Obstetrics Hospital points out that these methods lack scientific basis and improper application can lead to complications such as infection and burns. In traditional Eastern medicine, herbal steam water is sometimes used to aid detoxification and speed up recovery from colds. Steaming can also expand blood vessels under the skin, improving blood circulation. However, a postpartum mother's body has not yet fully recovered, and self-prescribing steaming with herbs of unknown composition and dosage is not safe. In particular, steaming for vaginal tightening and complete expulsion of postpartum discharge lacks scientific evidence. According to Dr. Trang, the hospital receives numerous postpartum women who self-administer perineal steaming, resulting in complications like burns and infections. There is a risk of unwashed herbs or external bacteria entering the vagina and uterus, leading to sepsis or necrosis of the sutured area. For safety, postpartum women, especially those with swollen, exudative, or infected perineal sutures, or open wounds, should avoid home steaming. This also applies to those with high fever, weakened bodies, or a history of hypertension. Steaming should only be performed when the body has stably recovered, postpartum discharge has significantly reduced (usually 7-10 days after a normal delivery), and the perineal sutures have closed. The steam should be at a comfortable temperature, and the duration should be around 10-15 minutes after the steam subsides, with a maximum frequency of twice a week. After steaming, gently pat the area dry with a clean towel; do not use the same water for soaking or deep cleansing. The safest method is to cleanse with warm, clean water or a mild cleansing solution after each urination and bowel movement, pat dry with a clean towel, and change sanitary pads every 3-4 hours. Postpartum mothers need to consume adequate nutrition and drink 1.5-2 liters of water. A balanced diet incorporating the four food groups—carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals—is recommended. Fortification with calcium, protein, vitamins, and trace elements like iron, zinc, and copper is advised. Supplementing with fiber and probiotics from yogurt can aid digestion and reduce intestinal tension and constipation. Food must be safe, cooked, and hygienic. Avoid raw foods to prevent food poisoning or digestive issues. Limit stimulants like coffee, alcoholic beverages, energy drinks, and sodas. Foods high in sugar and oil, and spices like chili and pepper, should be avoided as they can easily cause bloating and discomfort. For women who have had a Cesarean section, sexual intercourse should be avoided for about 6 weeks to allow for complete recovery.