Fashion designer and new mother Masaba Gupta is openly sharing her postpartum journey, offering a relatable glimpse into the realities of life after childbirth. In a recent social media update, the celebrated designer marked a significant milestone: 13 months since welcoming her daughter, Matara.
The Reality of Postpartum Hormones and Body Changes
Gupta took to her Instagram Stories to detail her ongoing experience, highlighting that the body's transformation continues well beyond the first year. She revealed that her hormones are still in the process of settling, a point echoed by her homeopath. "My homeopath tells me 18 months is a good timeline to watch for as hormones still stay erratic," she shared, normalizing the extended period of physical adjustment many new mothers face.
To manage common postpartum issues like bloating, the designer has turned to natural, traditional remedies. She specifically credited castor oil tummy patches for making a significant difference. "Castor oil tummy patches have been a game changer for my bloating, and I have been waking up with more energy than I did earlier," Gupta stated, emphasizing their positive impact on her well-being.
Exploring a Routine of Natural Oils and Ghee
Her self-care regimen doesn't stop there. Masaba explained that she alternates between castor oil and cold-pressed almond oil based on her skin's needs, using the latter for deep hydration. Looking ahead, she expressed interest in incorporating another traditional element into her routine, stating, "Want to try ghee next."
This practice of applying oils to the navel is rooted in Indian tradition, and Dr. Shruti Chandak, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, shed light on its relevance for new mothers. "For women in the postpartum phase, this practice also provides a sense of self-care as the body continues to adjust," Dr. Chandak explained.
Expert Weighs In: Benefits and Precautions
While the navel itself doesn't absorb nutrients, the expert clarified that the benefits are derived from the ritual. "Gentle massage, slower breathing, and warmth can help ease abdominal tightness," she noted, adding that these routines can help women reconnect with their bodies after a challenging recovery.
Dr. Chandak also offered crucial advice for anyone considering similar remedies. She emphasized the importance of a patch test to check for skin irritation, especially with thicker oils like castor oil. While ghee is generally soothing, those with sensitive or acne-prone skin should use it carefully. "Applying it cleanly and avoiding heavily perfumed oils can decrease the chances of irritation," she advised.
Ultimately, Dr. Chandak positioned these home remedies as a supportive, rather than curative, part of postpartum care. "They don't 'heal' postpartum issues, but they can make the stomach area feel more relaxed," she said. True recovery, she concluded, hinges on foundational self-care: staying hydrated, building strength gradually, getting good sleep, and listening to one's body.
