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| |    Dealing With Bedrest During Pregnancy by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D. reviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P. There are several things that you can do to help make your time on bed rest more tolerable Make your setting as pleasant and stress-free as possible Set up the area where you will be most of the time. Place the phone, television, remote control, tissues, wastebasket, medications (if prescribed), books, magazines, crossword puzzles, and anything else you think you need, as close to you as possible so they will be easily accessible. You may want to pick up a hobby such as needlework, knitting, or crocheting. Keep yourself occupied To keep the boredom away, plan to watch your favorite programs on television, get in touch with friends you've lost contact with on the phone, or read a novel you've yearned to finish. Discuss with your practitioner about whether it would be safe for you to spend much of your day on the couch instead of in bed. Have your family bring their food in to dine with you where you are resting. If you have other children, read and do other enjoyable, quiet activities with your kids next to you in bed. Have a date with your partner at home. Rent movies and make popcorn for your evening together. Get some exercise Discuss with your practitioner how much exercise is safe for you to do. Even with strict bed rest, upper body exercise is usually considered safe. Flex and extend your arms and legs, breathe deeply. Do neck circles in both directions. This will prevent you from getting stiff. Discuss with your practitioner the safety of leg lifts, and pelvic tilts. For some conditions, doctors recommend resting for periods of time but you could still take walks or work with restricted hours. Be sure you are clear on your specific situation and your own doctor's recommendations. Prepare for the new arrival Many people feel unprepared for the new addition when they are confined to bed. Don't panic. There are several ways to get what you need for your baby right at your fingertips. Order from catalogs, the internet, or give a friend a shopping list. Talk about your feelings Many women feel alone and isolated when they are bedridden. The anxiety of having a high-risk pregnancy is all you have to think about, since things you usually do to distract yourself when under stress are off limits. It sometimes helps to know that other women are dealing with the same issues. There are support groups for women experiencing high-risk pregnancies. Ask your practitioner if there is one in your area. One such group is called Sidelines National Support Network (1-949-497-2265 or www.Sidelines.org). They can team you up with someone in your vicinity that has had a similar experience. Talking about your feelings with someone that has gone through it can really help relieve stress.
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