&& Bed Rest - Important for 3rd year &&

[m28ss]

Introduction to Bedrest


At some point in your pregnancy, your provider may prescribe bedrest. Bedrest can be "partial", meaning you are to spend some part of each day laying down and resting, or "complete", meaning you need to be laying down at all times. Complete bedrest can even mean hospitalization.
Pregnancy bedrest is usually prescribed when your provider believes it will be of benefit to your health or the health of your baby. Preterm labor, incompetent cervix, hypertension, placenta previa, and preeclampsia are some of the high risk pregnancy conditions that may be treated with some type of bedrest pre******ion.



Why is Bedrest Important?

If your doctor feels that you need bedrest, it is very important that you follow your bedrest instructions. Bedrest is a tool that can be just as important as medication in treating certain pregnancy conditions. Laying down removes weight and pressure from your cervix. This can be effective in treating conditions such as incompetent cervix and preterm labor.
Bedrest can sometimes result in improved blood pressure and decreased swelling. Laying down, particularly an your left side, improves blood circulation to your heart, uterus and baby. If your baby isn't growing as expected, your doctor may recommend bedrest to help maximize the blood flow to your uterus.


How to Manage Bedrest

A bedrest pre******ion usually means a major upheaval in your life. You may have to take a leave of absence from work. If you already are a parent, you may need to find help with childcare. Shopping, food preparation, laundry and house cleaning may need to be done by someone else. It is very important that you discuss the specific limitations of your activities with your prenatal care provider. Sometimes bedrest is prescribed for the remainder of your pregnancy, sometimes it is only for a few days or weeks.
Asking for help is the first step in surviving bedrest. Friends, family and coworkers are usually more than happy to be of assistance during this challenging time. It is helpful to remember that bedrest won't last forever.
It may be possible for you to do some gentle exercises (http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/exercise.htm) to maintain strength and muscle tone while confined to bed or your couch. Each pregnancy is different, however, and so be specifically advised by your obstetrician during any high risk pregnancy.
Set up your home environment so that you have books, writing materials, telephone and snacks within easy reach. This is a good time to catch up on letters, reading or putting your photos into albums.


Staying Healthy on Bedrest
Drink 8-10 cups, or more, of fluids every day. Staying well hydrated helps reduce risk of preterm labor and can keep you from becoming constipated. You should be urinating frequently and your urine should be pale or colorless if you are well hydrated.
Eat 6-8 small meals per day. Eating smaller amounts more often can help you feel better when you are restricted to bedrest. When your activity is limited your stomach may not empty as well and heartburn symptoms can be more severe if you eat too much at one time.
Eat foods rich in fiber. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, lentils and bran cereals can help prevent constipation.
Take any prescribed medication or vitamin/mineral supplements.
Keep all your prenatal care appointments. If bedrest has been prescribed, you have a higher risk pregnancy. This means it is even more important that you don't miss any of your scheduled checkups or appointments for fetal monitoring or testing.




Personal Issues

Preparing your bedresting area

I had everything close by that I would need during the day. A TV and remote, the laptop, phone, books, magazines, snacks and drinks etc. Pretty flowers and plants helped to liven up the room. ~SpringsGal

I had a laptop, TV, stereo, and lots of good books by the bed. I really didn't watch TV as it made the day drag by. But I did do a lot of cross stitch (I don't do it at all normally) to pass the time and gave the things I made away as Christmas presents. ~Julie

When I had to stay on bedrest because of bleeding, I had my husband bring the computer to the living room and I set it on the coffee table. This way, I could lay down while using it. I did this while soap operas were on. My day consisted of good morning TV shows, breakfast lunch, then using my computer and reading my book. Then my husband would come home and make dinner, and we'd watch primetime TV at night. Luckily, I only had to get bedrest for a week. By the end of the week, the morning TV shows were getting a little repetitive and I mostly read my book. ~ Michele




Suggestions for staying comfortable

Get an egg-carton type foam mattress to reduce stiffness and soreness. Now's a better time than ever to invest in a good mattress. ~Julie

Pillows! Lots and lots of pillows. Prop them all around yourself for ultimate comfort . . . under your knees, behind your neck, under your lower back, or on the side for you to toss your leg over. Stretching often is extremely important too. Massage is another fantastic comfort. Have your partner or one of your children give you a nice massage. Make sure to have a top sheet and depending on the time of year and climate you live in, have 1-2 blankets and a comforter handy. In the summer, consider ventilation and air conditioning. I found a terrific way to make the transition of getting into and out of the bed easier. If you happen to own one of those step aerobic steps, have your husband place it next to your bed. It makes it so much easier to climb in and out. Plus it's nice and wide (also extremely stable), so there's less chance of stepping off of it or onto it wrong. ~Vicki

Invest in a body pillow or two. They really help you stay comfortable. Light stretching, if permitted, helps to relieve joint pain. Soup cans are great for arm curls while watching TV. ~Jacki

Get an eggcrate mattress for your bed; a heating pad does wonders for sore joints and muscles. ~Melisa

One thing I found to be very handy was to have a 1 liter resealable drink bottle of water in or near the bed. I could fill it up on my foray out to the restroom, it was easy to drink from without spilling, and by being resealable, the cats (or me) couldn't knock it over or make a mess. Very handy! ~Wendy, oz's mommy



Boredom and how to fix it

Get your hands on a laptop computer and manage some way to connect to the Internet! Besides being one of the very best forms of entertainment for someone on bedrest, you can keep up on local/world/entertainment events, do research and frequent StorkNet's message boards (http://www.storknet.com/boards/intro.html)! If you enjoy the company of your pets, allow them into your room or even up on your bed.


It makes for a nice distraction for you and besides, they'll love you for it! ~Vicki


A laptop is wonderful - you can surf the net for hours and work from home if needed. I actually wrote a business and marketing plan for a company that I am starting that I had time to dream up while on bedrest with my twins! ~Susie

Use this time to create a family *** site or a future one for the baby. ~Lara

Keep a phone book, church directory, or address book by your bedside and of course a phone. This is a great time to use to encourage others who are sick or just down. It takes the focus off of me and helps me to be a comfort to someone else. ~Michelle

Have all your hobbies handy. Start some new hobbies! ('While on bedrest, I cross-stitched a bunch of bibs and hand towels for the baby. I also learned to crochet and made three blankies.') Things to have handy: letter writing supplies, manicure tools, TV remote, deck of cards, board games, magazines, books, crosswords, photo albums that need work, newspaper, catalogs, scrapbooking, knitting, crocheting, quilting, cross-stitch, etc. Redo your phone book! ~submitted by several StorkNet members

I suggest one of those lap desks that have a hard writing surface but are filled with small styrofoam pellets and conform to your lap. Very helpful! Also, I gave my husband a big list of funny movies that he could rent from the video store, and he kept the list in his wallet so that he could refer to it each time he went to get movies for me. ~Jen

I played video games! I also brought all of my son's books into my room so he could come up onto the bed for stories. ~Cheri

Move the computer desk beside the bed! You can surf the net, purchase baby items online (http://www.storknet.com/mall/equipment.htm), play games and combat boredom. Start a diary for the baby. It's great to look back and read all that was going on. ~Jacki

Join an online support group such as Sidelines (http://www.sidelines.org/); express your fears to your practitioner; read everything you can about your condition and pregnancy; plan on hospitalization sometime during your time in bed. It is easier to accept if you have thought about it as well as planning childcare for your older children; set goals for yourself. ex: 25, 28, 30, 32, 34 weeks and so on; read the StorkNet pregnancy journals (http://www.storknet.com/journals/index.html). Cry. Cry as often as you need, you'll feel better. ~Melisa

Work on a project that you enjoy while on bedrest. It will give you a sense of accomplishment. ~Bethany

I worked on all my thank you notes for baby gifts and caught up on other correspondence. ~Colleen

I played Sony Playstation (games like Tetris that are easy and addicting). I could lay on the couch on my side (as doctor prescribed) and do something besides watching soaps all day. ~Tonya

I found it a great time to learn Spanish. I used the cassette tapes with book, put on my Walkman, and learned to speak basic Spanish, which helps me with my job. It also kept me from pulling my hair out . . . there is only so much TV you can watch! ~Traci "TeeSay
"
I caught up on letter writing, finished college assignments, watched films I had promised myself I'd see, did photo collages and things like that - plus my job sent me work to do at home. ~Jo

My husband, a computer geek, said that if I was ever put on bedrest, he would rig up the computer where I could use it from the bed, perhaps even projecting the screen on the ceiling. I think this would really help me stay connected with friends, shopping for baby, and keeping up with the outside world. ~Ursula

We finally have the time to master the art of making *** pages especially for when the baby arrives! It could be Front Page, Dreamweaver or even Macromedia Flash! The real heavy duty stuff! How about sharpening up the skills on how to optimize those baby pics for fast internet uploading using Paint Shop Pro, PhotoShop or whatever software we have handy! ~Irina

I was on bedrest the last six weeks of my pregnancy and I'd have to say the best thing I did was make a daily schedule for myself. I allowed a certain amount of time for TV, for phone calls, and email. That way I always had something to look forward to. Also, don't expect to have a lot of energy because you are laying around all day. It is really draining. Don't overbook yourself with social visits, etc. Plan one or two a week and they will really be something to get excited about! ~Elizabeth

Invite your sisters or girlfriends over to be on bedrest with you for a day, or even a few hours. They can bring snacks, movies, games, and you can all lay around indulging in girl talk and hair and makeup sessions. It'll feel more like a slumber party than bedrest! ~Scotti

I am a college student on bedrest, so I decided that I could do both, I take online classes to keep me busy. I had my husband push the bed up against the computer desk and I do all my work right there. TV helps to pass the time, but the computer and studying helps much more. ~Heather


Personal hygiene and feeling good about yourself

If you're lucky enough to have shower privileges have someone bring you some scented soap such as The Body Shop's Satsuma soap. A lifting fragrance can go a long way. ~Jenine
You can wash your hair by scooting your head off the top of the bed and have someone use a water jug to wash your hair. Use the garbage can to catch the water. ~GLooney
See if your regular hairdresser will make a housecall, even if to just give you a wet-cut. Mine did this, and it was WONDERFUL! Made me feel like a real person, and she cut it in a style that looked good even without me doing much to it. ~Suzanne

Stay fresh by keeping a clean, wet washcloth and a pack of handi wipes nearby. ~Ann

Shower everyday if you can, do your make up and hair in bed and put on a comfortable outfit. MAKE your bed and lay on top of the comforter rather than under the covers. Open your blinds; let the sun in! ~Susie

Getting into regular clothes and out of PJ's goes a long way towards helping you feel like a normal person. It is so easy to get depressed when on bedrest, and staying in pajamas all day seemed to make the depression worse for me. ~Jen

Get dressed and put on make-up everyday! Paint your toenails; spend SPECIAL time with your spouse. Intimacy does not have to mean sex. ~Melisa

Turn down the covers everyday and if you're allowed, get a shower and get dressed, even if you're laying down the rest of the day. It does wonders for your self esteem. ~Julie



Maintaining intimacy with your partner

Take the opportunity to do special things for your husband. I made homemade cards for him, something that I wish I had time to do now! ~Julie
From our interview with Anne Semans & Cathy Winks, authors of The Mother's Guide to Sex: Question: I'm on complete bedrest with my pregnancy, and my husband and I aren't allowed to have sex. I'm not allowed to have any kind of orgasm so we've pretty much stayed away from each other. How can we stay connected through the rest of this pregnancy?

Anne: Well, after all that abstaining, just think about how great your first orgasm will be! But on to your question. You and your husband can stay connected through a variety of intimate contact. It's not always about the physical--showing each other how much you love each other can be done in thousands of way, kind words, love letters, thoughtful gestures, spontaneous getaways, special meals, little treats, you get the idea. As for the physical, only you know how close you can be without feeling a sexual urge--so experiment with that, perhaps its just holding hands during a movie, sleeping spoon style, etc. It may feel like a restriction, but this can present you with some great opportunities to connect on a deeper level.
. . . . . .

[m28ss]

Home and Family



Meals and shopping for you and family



I had a mini-fridge by the bed and each evening, DH would fix me a sandwich, salad, and fill up a water pitcher for me. With the fridge, I could keep healthy snacks, yogurt, milk, carrots, etc by the bed. Get a thermos/caraffe (sp?) to keep hot water by the bed so you can have tea, soup, etc. We had one that kept water hot from morning until DH got home from work. ~Julie


For daily meals use a little cooler that your husband or family has packed the night before for you with healthy meals and drinks. ~JaJa


I avoided heartburn by eating small amounts and tried to sit up after eating. ~Ann


I asked family members to make extra for us when *****ng dinner so we could have it already made in the refrigerator and easy to warm up. I also wrote up a prefab shopping list with everything that I had in the house and left it on the fridge. When we ran out of something, my husband would just check it off, and when he went to the store he knew exactly what to buy. ~TeeSay


My husband would bring a hot breakfast every morning; pack a cooler for lunch (thermos for soup/tea); dinner would go into the crockpot so it was ready when he got home. We also took advantage of the convenience meals in the store (freezer to microwave). When friends ask what they can do, ask them to throw together a casserole for the freezer. If you don't use it right away, it's there when you bring the baby home. ~Jacki


Use paper plates and cups. This is a temporary situation well worth fewer dishes. Be sure to let people know your food likes and dislikes. They probably want to know and it will make it easier on you in the long run if you are honest about your appetite or preferences. Keep cash on hand so you can reimburse those who shop for you. They will ask you again what you need from the store when they are going if they know you can reimburse them immediately. And when they ask, give them your list! ~Sue


I made a chart on the computer (and printed it out) of all the different things that helpers could do, and whenever it was done, I would write their name and the date by it. Then, when someone asked what they could do, I could give them options, and also kept up with how long it had been since the bathroom had been cleaned, etc. It was also great to be able to write thank you notes later and say "Thanks for the fried chicken, cleaning the bathroom, and taking Andrew to t-ball practice" or whatever they had done. ~Suzanne







Family members and children; birthdays and holidays


Take the opportunity to do special things for your children and/or husband. I made homemade cards for my husband, something that I wish I had time to do now! Tell your family often how much you appreciate them. Bedrest is hard on everyone! ~Julie


My mother picked up my three year old each weekday for a few hours and brought him home tired for an afternoon nap. It was a lifesaver! ~Carolyn


We homeschool, and during my last pregnancy, my children were in grades kindergarten and first grade. I brought our school books to bed and taught from there. Actually, it helped our school days to be more laid back and less stressful. The times we weren't doing school, they could bring in their toys and I could watch and supervise them from the bed. We never had help to come in since neither of our families were available. Now that the twins are on the way and I sometimes spend a lot of hours resting in bed again, I teach my youngest (second grade) from bed. ~Michelle


I think my kids pick up on when I am stressed. So, I would recommend not focusing on the things you aren't able to do at this time and really concentrate on those things you can do! My kids are generally fine as long as I'm fine. Be creative! You'd be surprised how you can adapt party ideas to suit your needs. These holidays could turn out to be ones your older children remember the most because you had to be more creative. ~ Michelle


Spending time with a toddler is a must whether or not you are bedresting. When I was on bedrest, I kept a basket of my 3 year old daughter's favorite toys and activities next to me. We colored, painted, did puzzles, read books, watched movies, cuddled, played games, play doh, and even made up games like couch basketball (trying to throw stuffed animals or socks into a box or basket from the couch). She even helped with household chores which made her feel like a big girl. She would dust or help clean out the fridge/freezer by having Daddy put questionable items in her little shopping cart. Then she would bring them to me for a garbage verdict or not. Then she'd take them back to Daddy with the report. By spending quality time with her from the couch, she accepted mommy's inability to get up much better. ~ Teresa


When I was on bedrest I stayed on the couch because it helped to prop me up on my side. My two boys each had a basket of their favorite quiet toys and videos. They also had their crayon box and marker box with coloring books. Anything that needed to be supervised was kept near the couch and they used these items on the coffee table in front of me. This table also served as my breakfast, lunch, and dinner table. By staying on the couch, I could also supervise the answering of the front door and the telephone. My 4 year old took care of me and our 2 year old for those two and a half months by getting healthy fingerfoods left in the fridge by Dad, and by doing all of the leg-work for our supervised activities. He is now turning 10 and is by far the most mature and reliable 10 year old I have ever met! Children love to be helpful, and thrive on it. ~ Sandy


I was on bedrest thru Thanksgiving and up to Christmas. My best advice is let everyone else do everything! I did a lot of catalog and internet shopping. My DH organized a tree decorating party - I just sat back and watched everyone else do the work. My MIL fixed Thanksgiving dinner that we ordered from the deli and I fixed Christmas dinner that we ordered from the deli. I was able to do all the Christmas cards and birth announcements while I was in bed, and write thank you notes for baby gifts. I was very sad about missing out on the Holidays, but it ended up not being that bad at all! ~SpringsGal







The Holidays Are Still a Time of Fun and Cheer--Even on Prescribed Bedrest (http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/holidays.htm)



Prescribed bed rest needn't isolate expectant mothers in their bedrooms or to one easy chair in the family room. With a little creativity, moms on prescribed bed rest can add meaning and joy to the holiday season not only for themselves but also for friends, family and the new little one on the way. Read this article by Darline Turner-Lee





.

Housework and running the household from bed



Make lists! Husbands and other helpers do best with lists. Heaven knows you will have time to write them. Make them as clear as possible and try hard not to sweat the small stuff. Be sure to say 'thank you.' It goes a long way. ~ Resa


All older children can help, as can your hubby when he gets home from work. I even help from bed with folding laundry that is brought to me, or things like doing the bills in bed. I try to not put too much responsibility on the kids though, so some things I just relax about and let go. The housework will eventually get done; it's not really something I would get stressed about as long as a room (living room) was kept picked up for unexpected company. ~Michelle


Accept all help that is offered and be very specific about what you want the person to do. Give each person a job such as grocery shopping, *****ng, cleaning, child care. Spend some time planning projects for each of these people. I had a very supportive family. My mom hired a cleaning lady to come over and clean up for me. ~Bethany


Print this out and go over this list with your significant other so you both understand how important teamwork is. ~StorkNet







Preparing the house for a new infant


I did all my shopping for the nursery and layette online. Most of the time I used eBay, because it was fun and helped pass the time. ~Julie



I used my husband a lot on this. He didn't mind since this is a journey we prepared for together. Older kids can help and I think needing them has helped mine feel more involved. I know it has made my almost 13 year old son feel more manly to be needed in the setting up of cribs and arranging of furniture. I, of course, couldn't help my husband do all that heavy lifting, so my oldest son saw himself as a part of this whole adventure! ~Michelle


Make very detailed lists about items needed for the baby, including product names/de******ions. Have your husband or MIL/SIL/sister/mother help with the shopping. They'll feel included and like they are really sharing the experience with you. This way you'll also feel a part of preparing for baby. It's hard when you can't go out and do your own shopping. ~Jacki


I was lucky and had my Mom and sister come in to help me get the nursery organized. But really the only things I needed right away were the bassinet up and the baby clothes washed. Everything else was really not necessary until after the baby arrived. ~SpringsGal

[m28ss]

Working From Home


When you've been working outside the home

I've already been told by my doctor that I will be on "home rest" if not bed rest the last ten weeks or so of our pregnancy due to the twins. I'm an attorney so I've had to scramble to get things set up so I can keep earning some kind of money. I've kept my firm updated on the doctor's recommendations and this seems to help a lot as far as getting everyone to understand what I will and won't be able to do while at home.


My husband has volunteered to deliver files back and forth between home and the office, and we have the computer, phone, scanner, and fax machine all set up next to the bed in the guest room, with my law library on the other side of the bed. I've informed all my clients that another attorney will be making court appearances, but that I will keep an eye on their cases. They seem to really appreciate knowing what is going to happen in advance. One thing that we've done is to talk to our credit card company and get an extension of our credit line and reduced our interest rate, that way if I'm not making quite as much during this time, we won't be in an absolute panic. ~Schwartz

Bedrest doesn't mean you can't still earn a living. I was able to work full-time despite being on bedrest the last two months of my pregnancy. Talk to your boss and determine what you might be able to accomplish from home via the internet, email, phone, snail mail, even pickups and deliveries from an officemate and/or your husband. As long as you come to an agreement about expectations, everyone's a winner - you can keep busy and make money, and your employer still gets the advantage of your skills. ~Ann "Dancer
"
My office went so far as to reimburse me for installation of satellite internet service to facilitate my continuing to work from home. My husband got help setting up a wireless LAN at home, too, so I can more easily use my laptop in bed. It's a difficult adjustment to make, going from working closely with a team of people all day to working in solitude with only your computer and the phone for company. But I feel like less of a burden on my family being able to still earn an income. ~Dawn




When you've been working at home

Move your computer into your bedroom so that you can telecommute, if that's possible with your job. I was a teacher when I was on bedrest, so this wasn't an option for me, but the work I do now can all be done from home. ~Jen

[m28ss]

Inspiration, Encouragement and Support





Members' Tips

Start your day with fresh flowers whenever possible. If they grow in your yard, ask hubby to bring some in for you. Open your window when possible and let sunshine and fresh air in. ~Submitted by several StorkNet members
Maintain a positive attitude! This is no longer just about you but your unborn baby as well. Read Chicken Soup for the Expectant Mother's Soul (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1558747966/ref=nosim/storknet00). ~Melisa

My best tip to anyone is to do everything you can to stay positive. Most of what is happening is out of your control, but you can control how you react to it and ultimately that helps the baby as well. I counted all the things I had to be grateful for each night until I went to sleep. (The song says "You'll fall asleep counting your blessings.") and I started each day by acknowledging I had made it through so far and needed to get by one day at a time. ~Colleen

I was very hesitant to ask for help, but my mother wasn't. I had several women from church, our neighborhood (though we'd only lived there a couple of months), and other friends helping -- I was on bedrest for 10 weeks with three children under six, so I really did need help. Letting others help was hard, but one friend told me "it's a blessing to ME to help YOU. Do you deny me this blessing?" ~Suzanne

My friends all offered me their favorite inspirational books. It was wonderful because I moved from one book to another and kept a journal in a lovely lined notebook. It kept my spirits up. ~Georgia

Keep a gratitude journal. At the end of each day, jot down five things for which you are grateful. I did that, and it really helped me stay positive and focused on what was good in my life. ~Jen

Play music for your baby, and read out loud to her. I believe she will be born with an interest in music and a love for story time. It doesn't hurt and you'll feel like you are adding a special touch. I did! ~Glenda

Get yourself a wall calendar, crossing off days, then weeks helps you see that the time really is going by, even when it seems to stand still. It helps you see what you've already accomplished and that you really can do it. ~Tina

[m28ss]

Bedrest and Your Doctor




Checklist of questions (http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/chart.htm) ~ a printable list to take to your doctor
What if your doctor isn't supportive/encouraging (http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/doctor.htm#a1)



Coping With Hospital Bedrest

What to pack and take with you

I spent 4 months on bedrest in the hospital with my last pregnancy. I had my mother bring in a quilt for my bed, a cd player with my cds, some of my favorite knick-knacks, a few faux plants, pictures of my friends and animals, a rug to go next to my bed, books, a VCR (it had to be approved), and all of my personal care items. She and my husband set my room up to look like a real bedroom. It felt comfy and cozy. The nurses really loved it. ~Katrina

I was on bedrest in the hospital for 2 1/2 weeks, after two weeks in bed at home. Being in the hospital was for me infinitely easier. You could just ring and a nurse would bring you food and drink, or help you get to the bathroom--unlike being alone at home while my husband was at work and I was watching the house grow dirtier and dustier. Generally, the stuff I needed was not terribly different from what I needed at home. Except I wish I had had the eggcrate mattress at home (my hips got sooooo sore.)
1) I found my laptop computer and a pair of headphones invaluable. My hospital doesn't have semi-private rooms, so I had two different roomates. Since nobody gets along with everyone, the headphones were key. I could listen to music, watch movies and play games and a- I wouldn't disturb my roomate, b- she would know not to bother me.
2) Nice pajamas. Get the heck out of the hospital garb. My husband and his buddy got me some very cute sets. Old Navy has fun pajamas.
3) Slippers. You won't get up much, but when you do, the floor is awfully cold.
4) If the hospital bed table doesn't have a mirror in it, get a little makeup kit. I don't wear makeup on a regular basis, but I still like to brush my hair, put a clip in it, and apply a bit of blush and some lip balm. Makes you feel human and not like an invalid. Same as bedrest at home. ~Cara



Suggestions for staying comfortable

Purchase a foam pad to put on the hospital bed and bring your own pillows. These two things made my 2 month hospital stay much more comfortable. ~Mandee

If you are on bedrest in the hospital, have your husband bring in some posters, framed pictures and plants from home. It makes a world of difference in making you feel comfortable and at home. Talk to the staff about a schedule that fits you, not them (for meals, having your vitals taken etc). ~Tina

I definitely agree with setting up a schedule in the hospital that fits your schedule instead of theirs. I was in the hospital on bedrest for two weeks (they said I would be there for six weeks) and every night right when I was going to sleep someone would come in to take my vitals. Then I could never go back to sleep. So annoying! The staff has got to be able to work with the patient on that because after all we are the ones living there for that period of time. ~Ginny

Have someone bring you extra pillows. Those hospital ones are horrible and they are stingy with them. ~Rachelle




Boredom and how to fix it

Have some of your family and friends come over for a few hours for a beauty day. Paint nails, have facials, color hair, try new make-up, wax legs and brows. Turn your day into a SPA day at the hospital with your family and friends. ~Katrina

While I spent six weeks on hospital bedrest I started to design different baby announcements that we could send to people after the baby was born. All we had to do was insert a picture of the baby. It really helped me to pass the time. Sometimes I would stay up all hours of the night working on them, as I was so excited to see them finished. It's a positive way to lift your spirits! Also, plan a girls' night. Ask friends over for pizza and a movie. ~Denice




Personal hygiene and feeling good about yourself

I was lucky enough to have my mom stay with me while I was in the hospital. She helped me talk the nursing staff into rolling me on a gurney to the scrub sink in the OR for a good hair washing! I felt so good after words. I also had my mom rub scented lotion on my legs. ~Jennifer

Take time each morning to do your hair and makeup. It really helps you feel a little more upbeat. ~Mandee

[m28ss]

Tips for family members/friends
When Friends Ask, "How Can I Help?"
Errands:

http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifLibrary - pick up/return books
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifVideo Tapes/DVDs - pick up and return
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifDrycleaning - drop off and pick up
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifGrocery Shopping
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifDepartment Store, Craft Store, etc.
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gif Post Office - buy a book of stamps or mail items
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gif Toy Store - pick up a birthday party gift or special gift for the helpful
sibling
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifCard Shop - buy birthday card, stationery, or thank you cards
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifNewsstand - newspaper, favorite magazine or book


Household:
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifWash dishes
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifWash a load of laundry
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifVacuum and pick up living room
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifHelp child straighten his/her room
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifWater plants
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifMow lawn, water yard


Child Care:
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifPlay with child in your home
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifTake child out
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifTake or pick up child from daycare/school


Meals:
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifBring a casserole
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifBring a fast food dinner
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifBring a yummy dessert for a treat


Social:
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifPhone twice a week
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifVisit for an hour and bring a snack
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifCome for a party! (Ask her to bring the pizza and video!)
http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/checkbox.gifTeach me a hobby or craft that you are interested in. (scrapbooking, sewing, etc.)

[m28ss]

[align=left] (http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/at.htm)Information, Resources, and Ideas for Volunteers and Caregivers (http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/at.htm)

compiled by Amy E. Tracy

Finding Volunteer and Financial Help
Ideas for Supporting Moms (and Their Families) on Bed Rest
Resources for Caregivers
Support Groups for Families on Bed Rest
Starting a Lending Library
Sustaining an Activity Cart





Prescribed Bed Rest--Harmful or Helpful?
by Darline Turner-Lee Every year in America approximately 700,000 pregnant women are prescribed bed rest by their obstetricians. The reasons for prescribed bed rest vary, but the pre******ion is often due

to:




High blood pressure that occurs with preeclampsia (increased protein levels in the urine and extremity swelling) and eclampsia (dangerously high levels of urine protein and generalized (all over) swelling)
Cervical changes such as incompetent cervix (won't stay closed) and cervical effacement (thinning)
Vaginal bleeding
Preterm labor (onset of labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy)
Multiple Pregnancy (twins or more)
History of pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or premature birth (delivery prior to 37 weeks)
Poor fetal development
Gestational diabetes
Placenta complications such as placental abruption (tearing from the uterine wall), placenta previa (placenta presenting first at the cervical opening), and placenta accreta (an abnormally strong attachment of the placenta to the uterine wall)

The rationale behind prescribed bed rest is to keep the mother calm and to allow her body to normalize so that the baby can continue to grow and progress to full term. Women with conditions such as vaginal bleeding or cervical changes are prescribed bed rest to keep them from engaging in too much physical activity which could increase vaginal bleeding or put pressure on the cervix and cause preterm labor. Lying down reduces the pressure of the fetus on the cervix decreasing stretching and pressure on the cervix. Laying in certain positions increases blood flow to the placenta, increasing oxygen and nutrients to the baby. Doctors believe that women with high blood pressure give their organs a rest when on bed rest, allowing their organs to function more efficiently because the women themselves are not moving about.
While prescribed bed rest is the standard of care in obstetrics for high risk pregnancies, there is no scientific basis for its use. There are few if any well conducted scientific studies done on pregnant women with the above mentioned conditions that show placing women on restricted activity or bed rest positively affects the outcome of their pregnancies. Restricted activity or full bed rest is what physicians currently have to work with and will be used until other proven effective methods are discovered. However, prescribed bed rest can have adverse complications.



Increased discomfort. If you are on strict bed rest, you must remain in bed in the specified position your doctor recommends. Over time you can develop pain and stiffness along your shoulders, spine and in your hips. In extreme cases, skin chaffing and even sores can develop. Discuss with your obstetrician how often to change positions and what positions are safe for you.
Increased Anxiety and/or Depression. Women with high blood pressure are often prescribed bed rest to reduce stress and lower blood pressure, but bed rest can have the opposite effect as a result. Some women who are prescribed bed rest develop clinical depression believing that they somehow caused harm to their babies or are the reason that the pregnancy is proceeding with difficulty. While maternal influences may contribute to complications when women engage in very vigorous activities or have very physical jobs, the vast majority of women with high risk pregnancies are in no way responsible for the pregnancy complications. Some complications (and subsequent miscarriages) are due to genetic abnormalities. Others are due to previously unknown physiologic conditions. Still other complications simply occur without any rhyme or reason. In susceptible women, placing them on restricted activity and the isolation of prescribed bed rest can heighten the guilt and sad feelings that can quickly turn into a clinical depression. Family, friends and obstetricians need to be ***** to the signs and symptoms of depression and get pregnant women on prescribed bed rest help immediately should symptoms develop. To learn about the signs and symptoms of depression, visit The National Institute of Mental Health's Depression FAQ (http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml).
Deep Venous Thrombosis (blood clots). Pregnant women are at increased risk of deep venous thrombosis (blood clots forming in the legs) because of the increased estrogen levels and because the growing uterus can press down on major blood vessels restricting blood flow. Pregnant women on prescribed bed rest are at even greater risk for DVT due to their decreased activity level, poorer circulation and because the uterus is more likely to rest on a major blood vessel and restrict blood flow. Meher et al reported in The Cochrane Library (issue 4, 2005) that "insufficient evidence exists that bed rest, either at home or in the hospital, improves outcomes for women with high blood pressure and may in fact lead to other adverse problems such as blood clots".

High risk pregnancy is tricky because while everyone wants what is best for mother and baby, it's currently unclear just what is best. To date no one has been able to show that prescribed bed rest is of any benefit to pregnant women, yet no one is willing to tell women with high risk symptoms to carry on with their normal activities. NASA researchers reported data from studies on women in space showing that women on bed rest who engage in no exercise are at risk of losing as much as one quarter of their muscle mass and losing up to one half of their overall strength (News Release November 15, 2007). They conclude that "Short but intense sessions of exercise may help women on bed rest stay strong and recuperate more quickly".
There is mounting evidence that women who remain active during their pregnancies fare better than their sedentary counterparts. Unfortunately there is no data that gives obstetricians clear guidelines about what is safe and beneficial in high risk pregnancies. Clearly more research is needed.


ADVERTISEMENT
Your browser does not support the IFRAME tag.
So if you are on prescribed bed rest, what should you do? Speak with your obstetrician and know why he or she is prescribing bed rest. Knowledge is power and the more you know, the better prepared you can be to take care of yourself and of your baby. If you have more questions about prescribed bed rest-whether or not it is best for you-or if you want more information about your condition consider consulting with a perinatologist. As with all medical conditions, a second opinion often sheds new light on a situation and provides solutions where previously there were none. Talk with your obstetrician about safe ways you can move while on prescribed bed rest. Prolonged sitting or lying puts pregnant women at risk for deep venous thrombosis, increases overall discomfort and significantly reducing overall strength and muscle mass. Ask for a referral to a physical therapist or an exercise trainer knowledgeable about pregnancy and bed rest to learn exercises you can to do to avoid these negative effects.
Bed rest is a tough pre******ion to follow. It is everyone's goal to have a healthy mom and healthy baby at the end of each pregnancy. Despite the mounting evidence that bed rest may not be the best pre******ion for high risk pregnancy and that short bouts of exercise are greatly beneficial, there still remains little information about what is safe in high risk pregnancy. Share this information with your obstetrician and perinatologist and work with them to devise a plan that will help you and your baby remain healthy and happy before, during and after your pregnancy.

[m28ss]

The Holidays Are Still a Time of Fun and Cheer--Even on Prescribed Bedrest
by Darline Turner-Lee

Most women give little thought to the fact that they may end up on prescribed bed rest during their pregnancies, and even less thought to what it means to be on bed rest during the holiday season. Prescribed bed rest needn't isolate expectant mothers in their bedrooms or to one easy chair in the family room. With a little creativity, moms on prescribed bed rest can add meaning and joy to the holiday season not only for themselves but also for friends, family and the new little one on the way.

The following 5 ideas are ways that moms on bed rest can add meaning to their holidays, take part in the festivities and, maybe even start new holiday traditions.
TAKE TIME TO STUDY THE TRUE MEANING OF YOUR HOLIDAY
Over the next several weeks people will celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa. The emphasis on retail sales has shifted most of the focus of the holidays to shopping and away from the celebration of the holidays themselves. Since you have the time, reacquaint yourself with the history of the holiday that you celebrate.
If you have older children find activities that you can do together to learn more about the history and traditions that go with your holiday. You can do daily projects such as create pictures that become advent calendars. Have special ceremonies for lighting the Menorah candles. Or for each of the seven principles of Kwanzaa, do daily activities that highlight each principle


DECORATE
By all means decorate, especially the area where you spend most of your time. If you are on strict bed rest, have family members help put decorations around your room (a small menorah or Christmas tree on a table, garland or lights around the windows, candles for Kwanzaa) so that you can have holiday cheer all around you. If you are able to move around a bit, oversee the household decorations from the sofa or recliner.
CREATE DECORATIONS
What a perfect time to let your creativity run wild! From your bed or chair you can string popcorn, make cards, ornaments and decorate holiday ******s. Let your creative juices flow and you just may find yourself making holiday gifts as well


CREATE HOLIDAY MEMORIES
This is your baby's first holiday season. Make a record of it to show him or her when they are older. Take pictures and create a scrapbook, keep a journal or diary of all of the events taking place and sharing special feelings and hopes for your child. If you are really ambitious and technologically savvy, use a ***cam to make a DVD.
Most children wonder what it was like when you were pregnant. They like to see pictures of themselves in "mommy's tummy". As your children get older, this is a great way to share special times reminiscing about them and what was happening as they were on their way into the world.
You can also share your experiences with family and friends. Create a newsletter that you can send via mail or e-mail. If you want to go global, create a blog or podcast of your holiday experience and share it with the world


THROW A HOLIDAY PARTY
Why not??? Invite friends over to help you decorate your space or to share new holiday traditions. Invite guests bring a special memory from their holiday traditions, i.e. an ornament for the tree, a special family Dradle or Kwanzaa feast dish.
If you are making a scrapbook, have each guest create a page and share what the holidays mean to them. They may even want to share a special sentiment with the baby if the scrapbook is for the baby. If you are making a DVD, have all the guests that visit over the holidays say a message on camera. Other ideas include having a caroling party or even a secret Santa Gift Swap.
No one wants to spend the holidays on bed rest. However, you need not miss out on all of the holiday events and cheer. Use a little imagination and creativity and this may very well be one of your best holidays ever!

[m28ss]

Bedrest Does NOT Have to Mean No Baby Shower



That's right! If the mom-to-be is ordered on bedrest, as long as it's okay with her (and her doctor), throw the baby shower anyway.

Let's face it; unless it's very late in the pregnancy, or she's an organizing maven (ala Martha Stewart), bedrest has probably thrown a serious monkey-wrench in her nesting plans. Now's your time to put on your red cape and "save the day" and provide an exceptional double-duty job - to provide her with the company of friends and loved ones, while taking care of the odds and ends for baby that she's not able to


Moms-to-be need pampering, it's an unwritten law that should be shouted from the rooftops. In the grand scheme of things, the time spent being pregnant is very fleeting. Although, during the last trimester it may seem like it's been forever; the total time when mom-to-be can be doted on is rather brief, then all of the attention will be focused on the new addition. When stuck at home on bed rest this just adds insult to injury. Thus, moms who have be ordered to bed need extra special pampering. Her baby shower is a wonderful way to make sure she gets this


Many moms who are unexpectedly put on bedrest have been caught unprepared for baby. Unable to shop, launder, decorate or assemble, this leaves much room for a creative baby shower planner in which to operate. Begin by determining the rules of bed rest. Can mom be moved to a different location in the home, or must she stay in bed? Also, talk to mom and ask how comfortable she is with the idea of entertaining while resting. Some moms may not want to be seen while being "laid up." Next, determine the type of shower that will best help mom while working for the space allotted


If the mom-to-be can relocate from the bedroom to a comfortable location in the living room or another area, then have the shower there. She might feel a bit more social outside of her bedroom and the space will probably be more accommodating for her guests, the gifts, and the festivities


If mom "must" stay in bed, then the shower will have to come to her. There are a couple of ways to do this. The first is the bedroom shower. Simply make the bedroom the focus, and dress it and her up for the shower. Purchase comfortable, fun, or elegant bedding, select matching pajamas or nightgown, perhaps, couple it with an old fashioned bed jacket and decorate the room in the shower theme. Pay careful attention to the amount of space in the bedroom and invite the appropriate number of guests accordingly. The second is an online or virtual shower by way of *** cam. If mom is not comfortable with guests, or have a room that is too small to accommodate them, a virtual shower could be just the ticket. The cool thing about the virtual shower is the location could be near, (downstairs in a larger room) or at a completely different location - like a hall or friends' home. The beauty of having a cam set up for mom from another location within her home is that the size of the bedroom becomes less of an issue and there's more room if larger gifts are given. The guests could even be upstairs with mom while dad, grandma, or a close friend is unveiling the gifts from below. If a remote location is used (a shower has already been planned and cannot be moved or rescheduled) a virtual cam is a wonderful way for mom-to-be to feel as though she hasn't missed out. Just remember to make sure she has some smaller gifts to open at home, along with some of the divine goodies that are being served


Now that the where has been determined, how about the fun! The baby shower is an opportunity for the Mom-to-be to be showered with gifts, but for a bedresting mom a little fun and levity will go a long way. There's nothing more personal and intimate than a "bed." She's supplying the ambiance, so, it's up to you to supply the rest. Relaxing candles, soothing music and even company outfitted in comfortable bed clothes (fun PJ's like Dr. Denton's) can help put a mom-to-be at ease. Suspend the tradition of shower games and give each other manicures, pedicures, and facials while dishing a bit


With you all being at her home already, why not help her get the show on the road and get the nursery together. This could be as easy as laundering the new items in baby detergent as soon as the gifts are opened and putting them away, or assembling items like cribs and swings, to painting the nursery and then helping decorate and unpack on a different day. Guaranteed, anything that helps her prepare for baby will be greatly appreciated


Remember, bedrest does not automatically mean the baby shower idea has to be abandoned, just that you may have to be more creative in the planning process. Just keep in mind doctor's orders, mom's comfort, and the goals at hand - which are to help mom get the home/nursery outfitted and to make her feel good.

[m28ss]

The Reference

http://www.storknet.com/complications/bedrest/index.html


I apologize for length

:)