Launch of Group-Based Day-Stay Postpartum Care Service 'Marifu Sea Relief'
Postnatal care clinic 'Egao Hirogaru' will launch 'Marifu Sea Relief' in Tabuse Town on May 28, 2026, to address the shortage of postpartum care facilities in the Yanai region of Yamaguchi Prefecture.
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- 📰 Published: May 24, 2026 at 18:30
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To address the shortage of day-stay postpartum care facilities in eastern Yamaguchi Prefecture (Yanai region), the specialized postnatal care clinic 'Egao Hirogaru' will launch a group-based day-stay postpartum care service called 'Marifu Sea Relief' in Marifu, Tabuse Town, starting May 28, 2026.
By partnering with a traditional house overlooking the Seto Inland Sea and a local cafe, the program overcomes limitations typical of obstetric institutions, such as age restrictions for infants over four months old and difficulties in bringing preschool-aged siblings. This project tackles regional challenges such as 'isolated parenting' and 'postpartum depression' through a collaborative model involving a private midwifery clinic, local businesses, and municipal governments.
Highlights of the Project:
- First group-based day-stay postpartum care in eastern Yamaguchi organized by a midwifery clinic.
- Tabuse Town has established a new subsidy program for postpartum care facility development, creating an advanced financial support system.
- Regional collaboration with Tabuse and neighboring towns (Hirao, Kaminoseki, Yanai, Suo-Oshima) to launch the program.
- Care provided in non-medical facilities (renovated house and cafe), collaborating with 'doppo' and 'mamarelief' to revitalize the Marifu district.
- Siblings allowed; no age restrictions for infants up to one year postpartum.
- Medical support provided by 'Takenoko Clinic' (Hirao Town) in case of emergencies or medical consultation.
Schedule and Capacity:
Twice a month (generally 1st Friday and 3rd Thursday), 10:00–14:30.
First session: May 28, 2026.
Capacity: 6 groups per session. Free of charge through municipal postpartum care subsidies (lunch and optional services extra).
Contact:
Postnatal Care Clinic 'Egao Hirogaru'
Director: Hiroyo Shiotani
FAQ
What is the 'Mari-fu Sealeaf' program?
It is the first group-based day-return postpartum care program in the Yanai area of Yamaguchi Prefecture. Held at a traditional house overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, it provides care and consultations by midwives, as well as opportunities for mothers to interact with each other.
Who is eligible and are there any usage restrictions?
Mothers and infants within one year postpartum who are residents of Tawarabuchi, Hiranjo, Kamiagari, Yanai, or Suo-Oshima towns are eligible. There is no age restriction for infants, and siblings who are not yet in preschool can accompany the mother, up to one per session.
What is the cost to use the service?
The service is free when using the local government's day-return postpartum care subsidy. However, lunch and optional services incur additional costs.
When and where is the program held?
The program is held twice a month (first Friday and third Thursday) from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM at the traditional house 'Kominato doppo' in Marifu, Tawarabuchi.
Is it possible to bring siblings?
Yes, it is possible. The program accepts siblings who are not yet in preschool, aiming to alleviate the isolation of parenting.