Each to their own. I hung around home alot in the first four weeks but in the end was itching to go out with just my DD to the shops.
When DD was born, my DH had three weeks off then my mum come over for a week to help out. I really didn't need it, I actually prefer to do things on my own accord alot of the time. If I need help, I ask for it.

I know my sisters husbands family is Orthodox and they stay home for the first 40 days after giving birth.