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Prescribed bed rest
Bed rest is one of those things that sounds great in theory (Cheesy novels! Celebrity magazines! Unlimited Web surfing!) but after the first week, it can get old fast.
Your doctor or midwife will put you on bed rest if she has any concerns about your pregnancy going to term. So, you may find yourself on bed rest if:
- you've been having contractions
- your cervix is dilating
- you've delivered prematurely in a past pregnancy
- have a history of miscarriage
- are carrying multiple babies
What Does It Mean, Really?
Being on bed rest is exactly what it sounds like: You rest in bed. But there are two kinds.
Modified bed rest:
This means you're allowed to get up to use the bathroom or fix a quick sandwich or sit up with your laptop. The details will depend on your doctor or midwife's orders.
Full bed rest:
If you're on full bed rest you may need to have sponge baths and use a bedpan. Your doctor or midwife may tell you to spend most of your time lying on your left side (to promote blood flow to your uterus) or even keep you in a bed that's tilted head downwards.
If your doctor or midwife puts you on bed rest, ask exactly what she means and get a list of dos and don'ts. Don't assume that it's ok to make cereal for your toddler or get up just to grab the mail. Check first!
Find Support from Others
The national organization Sidelines offers phone and email support for women who are on bed rest. Counselors are women who have been there and know the unique frustration of getting that urge to "nest" when you're not allowed to get out of bed.
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