bersalin

Bersalin is a Malay and Indonesian term that generally means to give birth, referring to the process of childbirth as well as the immediate postpartum period. The term is used in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and other Malay-speaking communities, and appears in medical, legal, and everyday language, such as cuti bersalin (maternity leave).

The childbirth process typically begins with prenatal care to monitor the health of the pregnant person and fetus. Labor is described in stages: early or latent labor with gradual cervical dilation, active labor with more rapid dilation, and the pushing and delivery stage. Pain management may include non-pharmacological methods and, where available and appropriate, medical analgesia such as epidurals. Most births occur in hospitals or birthing centers, and delivery methods include vaginal birth, assisted vaginal delivery (for example with instruments), or cesarean section when indicated for safety.

After delivery, the postpartum period lasts about six weeks, during which the mother recovers and the newborn is monitored and cared for. Postpartum care includes follow-up checkups, guidance on feeding and hygiene, and newborn vaccination and screening where applicable. In many Malay-speaking communities, traditional confinement practices, commonly referred to as pantang, are observed for cultural reasons, though medical care emphasizes safe recovery and newborn health.

Access to skilled obstetric care and appropriate education helps reduce risks during bersalin. Individuals can choose birth settings in consultation with healthcare providers and receive guidance on nutrition, warning signs, and when to seek medical attention, with the goal of ensuring a healthy outcome for mother and baby.