Bed rest in a multiples pregnancy is very common. Don’t be alarmed.
When you are on bed rest, it is very important to follow your doctor’s instructions. You’ll want to do everything possible to keep those babies in utero as long as possible.
In most cases, your doctor will want you to stop many “normal, everyday” activities. Some things you’ll want to ask about:
- Picking up older children
- Driving
- Walking
- Stairs
- Shower (or Bath)
- Cooking
- Sitting upright
- Light Chores
- Sexual Intercourse
- Exercise
Make “Bed Rest Buddies”
After gaining an understanding from your doctor about what you can or should not do, you’ll want to connect with other multiples moms also on bed rest. There are some great website communities for women on bed rest. A fantastic resource is sidelines.org. Connecting with others on bed rest can be an emotional lifesaver. Also, often times these bed rest buddies develop into lasting friendships as you and your pals raise your multiples.
Prepare for Bed rest
Set up a bed rest station in your main living area. Some things you’ll want within arms reach:
- laptop with internet connection
- snacks
- water and other drinks
- pencil / paper
- books and magazines
- TV remotes
What else can you do?
- Reconnect with friends
- Get Ready for Babies (Pick names, update your financial records – wills, etc.)
- Read Parenting Books
- Craft Projects
- Work (discuss with your employer options for working from home using your laptop or a telephone)
Being on bed rest can be challenging, but it can also be fun. Like many things in life — it is what you make of it. So take a sunny approach and see what you can get accomplished.
Copyright 2009 Kathryn Whiteley — TwinParenthood.com
