Q. I've gained a lot of weight during pregnancy; how can a Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM) clinic help me manage this?

Many postpartum patients feel distressed, wondering why others lose weight quickly while they struggle. It is completely natural to feel overwhelmed by this process. In Traditional Korean Medicine, postpartum weight gain is not viewed simply as accumulated fat, but as a result of retained metabolic waste and an imbalance of vital energy. We approach treatment through the following systematic stages: First, we focus on removing Eohyeol (stagnant blood/blood stasis) and lochia. Clearing the 'bad blood' that stagnates during pregnancy and childbirth is essential to restoring healthy blood circulation and reducing edema. Second, we target the removal of Dameum (phlegm-fluid). This involves clearing unnecessary fluids and waste products accumulated in the body. Skipping this step often leaves the body feeling heavy and slows the metabolism, making it difficult to lose weight. Third, we address Bi-heo (Spleen deficiency). We work to restore the digestive function and the energy of the Spleen. When the Spleen is deficient, the body fails to absorb nutrients properly while simultaneously accumulating waste, leading to a state of chronic fatigue combined with weight gain. Finally, we normalize metabolic function. Through customized prescriptions tailored to your specific constitution, we increase your basal metabolic rate and create an internal environment where the body can efficiently burn energy. Extreme fasting or using strong stimulants can be dangerous, potentially leading to Sanhu-pung (postpartum wind/joint pain) or severe exhaustion. It is crucial to first evaluate your current physical state and follow a balanced process of supplementing what is deficient and removing what is excess.