How to Cope with Bed Rest in Pregnancy

Being put on bed rest during a pregnancy is a very difficult and frightening experience. Laying around all day may sound like fun, but after the first day it can be incredibly boring and depressing. Having things to do to stay busy, keep your mind off pregnancy complications and not get cabin fever helps the time pass a little quicker and a lot more pleasantly.

Instructions

1. Follow the doctor's advice. If you have any questions, call the nurse or doctor to clarify. There are different types of bed rest during pregnancy so don't assume anything. Some people can get up to take showers, get themselves food and other short trips. Others can ONLY get up to go to the restroom. If unsure, ask.

2. Understand the condition that is being treated by bed rest. Preterm labor, high blood pressure (also known as pre-eclampsia),and placenta problems are some reasons to be put on bed rest during pregnancy.

3. Find something to do. Knitting, crosswords, writing letters, watching TV shows, talking on the phone--anything to pass the time while keeping off your feet.

4. Call someone. Any friend or family member that can listen when times get tough or lonely or when you just want to talk. Keep your address and phone book handy by your bed, so you don't have to worry about getting up for it.

5. Call the doctor or nurse if there are any problems. If they're not available, go to the labor and delivery unit or emergency room. It's always better safe than sorry, and spending a few hours in labor and delivery is worse than spending all day worrying and wondering if you should have.

6. Watch what you eat. Since exercise is not an option, weight gain is inevitable. However, choosing healthy foods that are good for the body and your baby will minimize this. With this in mind, don't undereat. Weight can be lost after the pregnancy, and a healthy baby is the ultimate goal.

7. Enlist the help of any and all family members and friends as possible. Don't be afraid to ask! You'll need help with meals for yourself and other family members, help cleaning, someone to talk to, help with other children, help with shopping and running errands. The possibilities are endless. People are happy to help, but most are afraid to jump in uninvited.

8. Ask the doctor if it is just bed rest, or if it is also pelvic rest. Pelvic rest means no sex, so this is very important to know.