How Can Bedrest During Pregnancy Help?

If you are one of the many women whose doctor has prescribed bedrest during pregnancy, you might be wondering why you need to do this, and if it will actually help you deliver a healthy baby. While there is some disagreement on exactly how much good bedrest can do, many practitioners believe that the benefits of bedrest outweigh some of the potential drawbacks.

If you have been prescribed bedrest during pregnancy, it's probably because you have a medical condition that places you at a higher risk, your family history or past pregnancies indicate a higher risk factor, or you might be carrying multiples. In most of these situations, the benefits of bedrest hinge on the body's ability to normalize after being under stress, and creating a more manageable environment in which you and your baby can stay safe and healthy.

If you are going to spend most of your time in bed, it's very important that you discuss with your doctor which position is best for you. For most pregnant women, lying on their side, with a pillow between their knees is recommended. You may also wish to look into a body bolster specifically designed for pregnant women.

Unfortunately, there are drawbacks as well as the benefits of bedrest. Long periods of bedrest will cause your muscles to lose tone, cause aching joints and increase the risk of blood clots due to poor circulation. The best way to combat these problems is through exercise, but be sure to check with your doctor before starting any program, no matter how light. If you are on bedrest during pregnancy, some exercises you might consider are: tightening your arm and shoulder muscles, squeezing stress balls, turning your arms and feet in circles, and pressing your hands and feet against the bed. Just be sure to avoid using your abdominal muscles. It may not seem like much, but you will be surprised at what a difference it makes if you are otherwise almost completely inactive.

If your doctor intends to put you on prolonged bedrest during pregnancy, you may wish to ask about getting some additional support. An occupational or physical therapist can work with you to come up with an exercise plan, and can also advise you on how to make your bed more comfortable. You may also want to consider seeing a therapist if you worry about the strain that prolonged bedrest may put on your spouse and children.

The benefits of bedrest can be considerable if you are in a high-risk pregnancy. It's especially important that you relax and take good care of yourself if you have high blood pressure. Additionally, if you have any physical problems, like a weakened cervix, bedrest can help prevent putting any additional strain on the affected area. If it looks like you will be on bedrest for an extended period, be sure to find out exactly what you can and can't do. If you have any concerns about bedrest and how to make it more comfortable and less frustrating, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor.