TL;DR Confinement lasts about 30 days; start enquiring from around week 20; carers and meals don’t replace NHS care; decide your arrangement first, then match and interview.
What is confinement?
Confinement (zuo yuezi) is a roughly 30-day postnatal rest tradition focused on rest, warmth, nourishing food and newborn care. In the UK, the NHS provides midwife and health visitor follow-up, but daily support and meals are up to you.
A pregnancy timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 12–16 weeks | Decide live-in vs shifts; plan your arrangement |
| 16–24 weeks | Book a consultation and interview carers |
| 28–32 weeks | Confirm meals; prepare the carer’s room |
| 36 weeks | Pack hospital bag; confirm start plans |
Who helps: carer, meals, family
Three common set-ups: a live-in confinement nanny (most complete), day or night care (flexible), or meal delivery plus family help (more cost-conscious).
Working alongside the NHS
Carers don’t replace your midwife or health visitor. For any illness, fever or persistent low mood contact your GP or NHS 111; in an emergency call 999.
What does it cost?
Every family is different, so every plan is tailored. An advisor will provide personalised advice after understanding your needs.
General information only, not medical advice.
