What is the golden month or 10th month of pregnancy?

After the birth of a baby, the new mother is often faced with many challenges to manage: between the fatigue of childbirth, the new rhythm imposed by the child, and this new role to tame, it is not always easy. Some end up exhausted both physically and mentally, or may simply feel overwhelmed and isolated. However, according to ancestral beliefs, the way in which the first 40 days following childbirth pass is decisive for the present and future well-being of the young mother and her baby. Discover here the importance of the golden month, how to prepare for it, and how to practice it.

What is the golden month?

The Golden Month is an ancestral practice originating in China. Since the postpartum period is a fragile time for the mother, the golden month plays a particularly important role in the physical and mental balance of the new mother, as well as her baby. For 40 days, maximum rest is recommended for the mother to recover from childbirth and discover her child. Indeed, a rested and peaceful mother means a healthy baby.

According to these beliefs, the 10th month of pregnancy is an opportunity to ensure the new mother’s good health. They believe that if she were to become ill during these first 40 days, it would have an impact on her future. Family and friends and home helpers work to ensure everything goes smoothly. This tradition is also found in Latin America and is called “cuarentana.”

These 40 days allow the young mother to rest with her baby, get to know him and let her body recover from pregnancy and childbirth.

The golden month is something to prepare for

If you want this golden month to go smoothly, it’s important to get informed and prepare for it during your pregnancy. Books like “The Golden Month: Living Well in the First Month After Childbirth” by Céline Chadelat and Marie Mahé-Poulin will help you better understand the specifics of these six weeks.

Anticipating your postpartum period also allows you to think about the things you want to put in place, but without too much pressure, of course. Having a concrete plan for how this month will unfold also helps you reduce stress and leave less room for the unexpected.

For those who don’t always have their loved ones available, plan ahead by preparing healthy and nutritious meals before giving birth to save time when the baby arrives.

It’s also important to explain to your partner and loved ones the importance of this month and the role they will have to play. Rest is key, so make sure you have the help you need when the time comes. There’s a reason they say it takes a village to raise a child.

How does the golden month work in practice?

Are you interested in the golden month, but how does it actually work? There’s no one best way to proceed during this golden month; it’s up to you to decide what works for you. However, we can offer you some advice:

- Rest

You may be wondering why it takes 40 days? The reason is primarily physiological: it takes a new mother’s body at least 40 days to regenerate, regain its energy, and heal from childbirth. This is why it is very important to rest as much as possible, stay at home in your bed or on your sofa lying down with your baby, avoiding physical activity or lifting heavy loads. Let your body recover slowly and serenely.

- Ask for help from your spouse and those around you

Your partner and those around you play a fundamental role in this golden month. It’s thanks to their help and support that you’ll be able to take advantage of all this time to rest and get to know your baby. So don’t hesitate to ask for their help with various tasks (shopping, cleaning, preparing meals, looking after your older children if you have any, etc.). You can also call on home helpers, doulas, or midwives if you have questions or need help. If you’re breastfeeding, your partner is also the person you’ll rely on. We’ve written an article on this topic so that your partner can best support you in this adventure.

- Take care of yourself

With the birth of your baby, you may tend to forget about yourself. However, it is important to take care of yourself. So when the baby is sleeping or your partner takes over, you can do postnatal yoga, meditation, a rebozo session or a postnatal massage at home… The goal is to do what makes you feel good and to protect your body from certain complications (urinary leakage or organ prolapse) thanks to robozo for example.

- Eat healthy

It’s important to adopt a balanced diet after giving birth. Choose nutritious, warm, and revitalizing foods that will make you feel good and comfort you. Hot and liquid meals are often suitable for this period (creamy soups, herbal teas, broth, dhal, etc.).

The Jolly Mama brand has developed a whole range of healthy and delicious foods, particularly for postpartum, and you can also take specific dietary supplements, such as those from Laboratoire Hollis, developed by this pharmacist-mother. Finally, if you’re breastfeeding, discover our advice on nutrition and breastfeeding to know what you can and can’t eat.

- What if I breastfeed?

If you’re breastfeeding your baby, all the more reason to stay in bed with him and you comfy nursing pillow as much as possible. This encourages milk flow and will help you be available to offer on-demand feedings.

Having good support and having access to resources will be key to a smooth start. To help you, we offer the breastfeeding coaching package, which gives you access to the best nursing pillow and a consultation with a breastfeeding consultant. You may also need advice at any other time and can schedule an appointment with our expert.

Again, ask your partner to support you by preparing meals and relieving you of the tasks you were doing before the baby’s arrival.

“My best advice is to communicate. You have to feel good about the people around you. I would advise learning to communicate well, knowing what you want and knowing your needs…” – Céline Chadelat, author of the book “Le mois d’Or”

Now you’ve clearly understood, the golden month is a moment suspended in time that will allow you to peacefully recover from childbirth and savor every moment with your baby.

FAQ: The Golden Month: Everything you need to know about the 10th month of pregnancy and postpartum

What is the golden month?

The Golden Month is an ancient practice that originated in China and has become a tradition in several cultures, particularly in Latin America. This 40-day postpartum rest period is crucial for the new mother’s physical and mental health. During this period, it is recommended that the mother take as much rest as possible to recover from childbirth and bond with her baby.

Why does the golden month last 40 days?

The golden month lasts 40 days because it’s the minimum time needed for the mother’s body to recover from pregnancy and childbirth. It’s a period of physical regeneration and well-being, allowing the new mother to recover, rest, and better adapt to her new role. In reality, the postpartum period can last much longer.

How to prepare for your golden month?

To properly prepare for your golden month, it’s a good idea to start thinking about your needs during pregnancy. This includes meal planning, seeking support from those around you, and emotionally preparing for this period of rest. You can also read books like The Golden Month: Living Well in the First Month After Childbirth to prepare yourself.

What are the practices to adopt during the golden month?

During this time, it’s important to rest as much as possible. Avoid physical activity and focus on your body’s well-being. Enlist the help of your partner and loved ones to assist you with daily tasks and make sure you eat healthy, nutritious meals to support your recovery.

What are the benefits of golden month on a mother's mental health?

This golden month allows the new mother to rest and reduce stress after giving birth. This helps prevent exhaustion, anxiety, and postpartum depression. This rest time is crucial for regaining emotional balance and fully enjoying the first moments with your baby.