For decades, doctors have recommended that millions of pregnant women be placed on hospital bed rest. First-time moms-to-be may actually look forward to a little rest and relaxation, but women who have given birth before know better. Being secluded away from family and friends can lead to feelings of isolation. After a few days, the inactivity can become uncomfortable. After a few weeks, the discomfort and boredom can seem agonizing.
Below, we'll explain the basics of bed rest, including why some obstetricians recommend it and why others warn against it. Indeed, there is confusion in the medical industry regarding its value. We'll also offer a few tips that will help you pass the time more easily.
Does It Help Or Does It Harm?
There are many potential issues that can manifest during your pregnancy. For example, your uterus might impede the blood flow of your vena cava, the vein that sends de-oxygenated blood to your heart from the lower half of your body. Or, if you're carrying twins, there may be a higher likelihood of preterm labor. Another condition happens when your placenta is positioned extremely low within your uterus, so that it covers your cervix. In each case, your doctor might prescribe bed rest to help eliminate the problem.
Unfortunately, there is very little concrete evidence that proves its efficacy. To be fair, there is also little evidence that debunks its value or the benefits some claim it offers. We do know that being confined to a bed for long periods during pregnancy can lead to muscle atrophy, blood clots, insomnia, and a mild loss in bone density. It can also cause your metabolism to slow which may lead to feeling overly tired.
This confusion about the effectiveness - and potential harm - of bed rest has led to an unspoken compromise in the medical community. Rather than suggesting 24-hour confinement to a bed, many caregivers now recommend moms-to-be simply rest a few hours per day.
Coping With The Boredom
If your doctor is convinced that total bed rest is necessary, you'll need to take a few steps ahead of time to keep your sanity. Keep your phone close by so you'll be able to contact friends when boredom rears its head. Move a television and a DVD player into your room; a well-stocked supply of your favorite movies can help pass the time. Also, consider keeping a laptop near your bed to communicate with others through email, Facebook, or even pregnancy and parenting forums. And of course, a pile of good books is hard to beat when you're bored.
Being placed on bed rest can disrupt your life in unpredictable ways. Speak with your obstetrician about it and use the tips above to keep your sanity if you're confined to your bed. - 29957
Below, we'll explain the basics of bed rest, including why some obstetricians recommend it and why others warn against it. Indeed, there is confusion in the medical industry regarding its value. We'll also offer a few tips that will help you pass the time more easily.
Does It Help Or Does It Harm?
There are many potential issues that can manifest during your pregnancy. For example, your uterus might impede the blood flow of your vena cava, the vein that sends de-oxygenated blood to your heart from the lower half of your body. Or, if you're carrying twins, there may be a higher likelihood of preterm labor. Another condition happens when your placenta is positioned extremely low within your uterus, so that it covers your cervix. In each case, your doctor might prescribe bed rest to help eliminate the problem.
Unfortunately, there is very little concrete evidence that proves its efficacy. To be fair, there is also little evidence that debunks its value or the benefits some claim it offers. We do know that being confined to a bed for long periods during pregnancy can lead to muscle atrophy, blood clots, insomnia, and a mild loss in bone density. It can also cause your metabolism to slow which may lead to feeling overly tired.
This confusion about the effectiveness - and potential harm - of bed rest has led to an unspoken compromise in the medical community. Rather than suggesting 24-hour confinement to a bed, many caregivers now recommend moms-to-be simply rest a few hours per day.
Coping With The Boredom
If your doctor is convinced that total bed rest is necessary, you'll need to take a few steps ahead of time to keep your sanity. Keep your phone close by so you'll be able to contact friends when boredom rears its head. Move a television and a DVD player into your room; a well-stocked supply of your favorite movies can help pass the time. Also, consider keeping a laptop near your bed to communicate with others through email, Facebook, or even pregnancy and parenting forums. And of course, a pile of good books is hard to beat when you're bored.
Being placed on bed rest can disrupt your life in unpredictable ways. Speak with your obstetrician about it and use the tips above to keep your sanity if you're confined to your bed. - 29957
