Lying-in
Videos
Lying-in is the term given to the European forms of postpartum confinement, the traditional practice involving long bed rest before and after giving birth. The term and the practice it describes in th
A mother in Florence lying-in, from a painted desco da parto or birth tray of c. 1410. As women tend to the child, expensively-dressed female guests are already arriving.
Richard Dagley's illustration "Taking caudle" of Thomas Gaspey's poem. The new mother reclines in a four-poster bed, recouping her energy. A member of the household sits at the foot of the bed, entertaining a visitor, who keeps her bonnet on; both of them are drinking caudle. A maidservant shows the baby to the visitor, while a dog and cat look on.
Postpartum confinement
Videos
Postpartum confinement is a traditional practice following childbirth. Those who follow these customs typically begin immediately after the birth, and the seclusion or special treatment lasts for a cu
Lying-in
…Lying-in is the term given to the European forms of postpartum confinement, the traditional practice involving long bed rest before and after giving birth. The term and the practice it describes in the Western world have, with…
Isabella of Hainault rests after having given birth to the future Louis VIII of France.
A mother and her newborn rest in bed, breastfeeding
Chinese painting of a woman breastfeeding her baby, surrounded by supporters
Pork knuckle with ginger and black vinegar