The centre will occupy a lush, resort-like setting in Newton; it includes a stay in a posh suite, with confinement food served “Michelin-style”, and care provided by experienced, ex-maternity ward nurses
Taking time to recuperate from childbirth has been a time-honoured tradition across cultures. Known variously as “confinement” (Chinese), “lying in” (British), “sanhujori” (Korean), or “jaapa” (Hindi), new mothers are supposed to get plenty of rest, eat well, and bond with baby.
In Singapore, it’s a common practice within the Chinese community for new mums to get their mothers or mothers-in-law to stay over for a month, taking care of them and the new baby, while preparing special meals meant to replenish the body and dispensing advice on what to do (or not do). Another common alternative is to hire a “confinement nanny” (usually, a grandmotherly freelancer) to do the job.

“My wife has given birth four times; I realise that a woman really needs to look after her emotional and physical well-being before, during and after pregnancy. She could face different issues with each birth, such as pain, fatigue or difficulties in breastfeeding,” noted Kevin Kwee, co-founder of Kai Suites, a new luxury confinement centre slated to open in early 2020.
< BACK TO ARTICLES