

If you have been inactive for a long time, you may experience muscle weakness and a lack of energy after your delivery. This depends on how long you have been on prescribed bed rest. Be sure to check with your health care provider before undergoing any therapy.Ĭan bed rest affect my postpartum recovery? A physical therapist or a massage therapist may be able to help you deal with these conditions. In addition to feeling tired and isolated, you may experience muscle and joint pain, backache and dizziness. While there is no solid research to either for or against bed rest, many health care providers believe it is worth trying if it may increase the chances of a successful, full-term pregnancy.Īre there any side effects to being on bed rest? Some health care professionals disagree about the benefits of bed rest. If constipation becomes a problem, your health care provider may advise you to take a bulk laxative, such as Metamucil, or a stool softener, such as Colace.Īre there any exercises I can do while lying down?Ĭheck with your physician to see if he or she recommends isometric exercises during bed rest. How can I prevent becoming constipated during my bed rest?Įating a well-balanced diet with extra fiber may help prevent constipation. If your doctor has advised strict bed rest for you, will have to make arrangements for child care both during the day and at night. Will I be able to take care of my other children while on bed rest? While you may be permitted to walk from the front entrance to the office, you should avoid long walks and standing for long periods of time. The vena cava is one of two large veins that that return blood to your heart.ĭepending on the type of bed rest prescribed, your doctor may tell you to have someone else drive you to the office. Depending on your situation, you health care provider may tell you to lie on your left side so that your uterus does not put pressure on the vena cava. Women are advised to lie on their side during bed rest, usually on whichever side is most comfortable. Your doctor will be able to give you specific information about your medical condition and activity level.ĭo I have to lie on my side during bed rest? Working at a desk for less than one hour, but only if there is no stress and if help is available if needed (either on site or by phone) Standing for short periods of time in your home (no longer than ½ hour) Short walks in your home (no longer than ½ hour) If your doctor has advised you to rest most of the time, the following activity guidelines may apply to you. Some women must remain in bed or on a comfortable couch most of the time, while others may only need to slightly restrict their activity. This will depend on the reason your doctor has prescribed bed rest for you.

Previous pregnancy complications -can include fetal loss, stillbirth, or premature birthĪ test or procedure that indicates a medical complicationĭo I have to stay in bed all day or can I move around? Multiple pregnancy -carrying two or more babies Incompetent cervix -a weak cervix that may open prematurelyĬervical effacement -thinning of the cervix
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Premature labor -labor that begins before the baby is considered full term Vaginal bleeding -may be due to placenta previa (low-lying placenta) or abruption placenta (premature separation of the placenta) Preeclampsia -a potentially dangerous condition that includes swelling, increased blood pressure, and protein in the urine Your doctor may advise bed rest for the following pregnancy complications: What are the most common reasons bed rest is prescribed? While a period of bed rest can interrupt your routine, it may be helpful in carrying your pregnancy to full term. If you have been prescribed bed rest, it means that your health care provider is concerned about a condition that may prevent you from carrying your baby to full term. Nearly 20 percent of pregnant women are prescribed some form of bed rest each year. Bed rest can mean literally resting in bed or just restricting your activity.
