subject: Bed Rest and Respite Due to Pregnancy and Childbirth [print this page] Bed Rest and Respite Due to Pregnancy and Childbirth
From hearing and seeing the baby's heart beat to feeling the first kick, there is nothing quite like the joy and anticipation that comes with being pregnant. Pregnancy is a time of preparation and memories in the making.
Whether shopping for maternity outfits, choosing the perfect name, registering for gifts, decorating the room, or going to childbirth classes, cherish these special moments. While everyone hopes for a storybook pregnancy and delivery, there may be some tough moments to endure, such as morning sickness, cutting back on your coffee, and needing to rest when there is so much to do.
Part of expecting is also preparing for the unexpected. Few people welcome the thought of bed rest or like the idea of a Caesarean section; however, the choice is often made for us. Extended periods of rest or respite can help ensure the health and well-being of both Mom and baby(ies). For some Moms, bed rest and respite may entail reducing their activity level. For others, it might mean being confined to bed and having to use a bed pan. Should you be told you need to get off your feet, consider the following:?
UNDERSTANDING BED REST
During a pregnancy, Moms often find themselves needing additional rest. While there are many reasons bed rest is required, a few of the more common ones are:
To help ensure the health and safety of both Mom and baby(ies).
To minimize the risk of complications.
To reduce the chance of preterm labor.
If and when bed rest becomes necessary, it is important to understand the extent of rest needed. The four types of bed rest are:
1. Inpatient: Hospital care and monitoring
2. Strict: At-home laying down with little to no activity
3. Modified: At-home resting with no strenuous activity
4. Scheduled: Taking regular breaks and limiting activity
In addition to the type of bed rest, ask your health care provider about specific recommendations and restrictions. NOTE: What may be okay today may be something you need to limit or avoid as your pregnancy progresses. You might also ask if there are any foods, activities, herbal supplements, prescription drugs or over-the-counter medications you should avoid.
When bed rest is prescribed it may be for the duration of a pregnancy or only for a limited time. Your health care professional should be able to give you an idea of what to expect, indicate why bed rest is necessary, and explain any possible medical concerns, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.
UNDERSTANDING RESPITE
Following a procedure such as a Caesarean section, taking a break and getting support during the recovery period may be essential for your own health, also known as respite.
HELPFUL TIPS FOR REST AND RESPITE
While the thought of relaxing may sound enviable, after a few days, bed rest tends to become a nuisance. Bed rest can also take a toll on your emotional wellness, family and social connectedness. As a result of limited mobility, you may need assistance with daily activities such as:
Grocery shopping and preparing meals
Caring for young children and pets
Personal care and house chores
Creating a sense of normalcy for the benefit of the family
To help make your rest or respite as peaceful and positive as possible, we suggest:
Getting Organized
Keep a list of reliable family and friends.
Keep things you may need or want within your reach.
Explore benefits coverage and leave options with your employer and insurance provider.
Learn about breastfeeding, infant care and more.
Engaging With Others
Keep in touch with family and friends.
In addition to visits, e-mail and the phone, try a video phone service like Skype.
Join a support group, explore pregnancy and baby websites and ask for recommendations on pediatricians.
Establishing a Routine
Having a schedule can help pass the time.
Pursue projects that can be worked on in bed, such as scrapbooking or addressing baby announcements.
Stay positive and know that fears and frustrations due to activity restrictions will arise.
Express your love in creative ways, such as writing love notes, sending e-cards, or recording special messages that can be played to young children at bedtime.
Seeking Support
To help establish and maintain a routine, consider enlisting the help of an organization such as Home Helpers. Due to work schedules and the uncertainty of waiting for a meal to arrive, the assurance that comes from professional care can provide confidence and comfort so Mom can enjoy visits with family and friends.
WEB RESOURCES:
American Pregnancy http://americanpregnancy.org
Baby Center http://babycenter.com
http://blogs.babycenter.com/Momformation
Discovery Health http://health.discovery.com
What to Expect http://whattoexpect.com
Women's Health Info. Center http://womenshealth.gov
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