Joseph Fraser Ninewells Hospital recently unveiled Parent X, Sri Lanka’s first dedicated postpartum retreat, introducing a comprehensive recovery program that places equal emphasis on the physical, emotional and psychological wellbeing of mothers following childbirth.
The initiative marks a significant milestone in maternal healthcare in Sri Lanka, recognising that while pregnancy and delivery receive considerable medical attention, the postpartum period is equally critical to the health and wellbeing of both mother and baby. Parent X has been designed to provide a nurturing environment where new mothers can recover under expert medical supervision while receiving personalised guidance on breastfeeding, newborn care, nutrition and emotional wellbeing. University of Colombo Emeritus Professor in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Prof. Hemantha Senanayake, reflected on how maternity care has evolved over the past four decades, noting that expectations surrounding childbirth have changed significantly.
‘When I began my training more than 40 years ago, expectations were very different. The focus was primarily on ensuring a safe delivery. Today, we understand that childbirth is not merely a medical event but one of the most profound emotional experiences in a woman’s life,’ he said.
He explained that maternity care has gradually shifted towards a more family-centred model, with one of the most significant milestones being the introduction of birth companions into labour rooms in 2011.
‘Allowing husbands or a chosen companion into the labour room transformed the childbirth experience. It humanised labour and strengthened respectful maternity care by recognising the emotional needs of women during childbirth,’ he said.
Prof. Senanayake said advances in medicine have significantly improved maternal outcomes while also creating greater awareness of the emotional and psychological challenges women may experience after childbirth.’Research shows that around three per cent of women experience childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder. Childbirth is a deeply personal experience, and mothers need support that goes beyond medical treatment,’ he said.
He explained that Parent X was developed to meet these changing expectations without compromising clinical excellence.
‘We wanted to add another dimension to the care we provide while maintaining the highest standards of safety for both mother and baby. There are certain aspects of maternity care that are essential, but we also recognise the need to care for a mother’s emotional wellbeing,’ he said.
Prof. Senanayake also observed that today’s parents, particularly younger generations, are seeking greater involvement throughout the pregnancy and postnatal journey.
‘Parents want to understand every aspect of the journey. They want to be involved in decision-making and receive holistic support throughout pregnancy and after childbirth. Our aim is not to create dependence but to empower parents with the knowledge and confidence they need when they return home,’ he said.
Parent X offers a carefully curated range of services designed to make the transition into parenthood smoother and more reassuring. Mothers receive round-the-clock support from dedicated Baby Care Support Nursing Officers, newborn sleep training, one-to-one lactation consultations, routine medical officer visits, postnatal physiotherapy and a specially curated recovery menu developed by nutritionists to support healing and breastfeeding.
Recognising that recovery extends beyond physical healing, the program also includes morning sound healing sessions, Ayurveda wellness therapies and mindfulness sessions for couples, helping families adjust to the emotional changes that accompany parenthood.
The program adopts a multidisciplinary approach by bringing together obstetricians, paediatricians, nurses, lactation consultants, physiotherapists, nutritionists and wellness professionals, creating a model of postpartum care that is rarely available in Sri Lanka.
Joseph Fraser Ninewells Medical Services Head Dr. Dilrukshi Sayakkara, said Parent X reflects the hospital’s commitment to delivering evidence-based, compassionate care that addresses every aspect of a mother’s recovery.
Joseph Fraser Ninewells Deputy General Manager Yoosuf Sabir said the retreat represents the next step in the hospital’s long-standing commitment to innovation in maternal healthcare.
‘Our vision has always been to enhance the patient experience while maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence. Parent X is an extension of that philosophy, ensuring mothers receive comprehensive care that continues well beyond childbirth,’ he said.
To complement its maternity services, Joseph Fraser Ninewells also offers mothers a choice of premium accommodation through its Aberdeen Suite, Fraser Suite and Planter Suite. Each suite provides a private and welcoming environment for mothers and their newborns while maintaining the hospital’s high standards of medical and nursing care.