I was put on bed rest during my first trimester for bleeding
and Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). I was able to go back to work for a few weeks but was put back on bed rest
to avoid preterm labor. All in all, I spent about half of my pregnancy on bed
rest. In theory, lying in bed all day may seem like a vacation, but in reality,
bed rest can be stressful, inconvenient and frustrating. There will definitely
be days when you will be wondering how you will be able to cope until it's time
to give birth. And because bed rest is pretty common in twin pregnancies, here
are some survival tips for you twin mommies on bed rest.
Create a sanctuary.
Choose beautiful linens and comfy pillows and keep your
favorite relaxing scent on hand. Place your baby's ultrasound on your
nightstand to remind you of your end goal. Make sure you also locate all
necessary items (water, snacks, books, phone, remote control) within arms reach.
Drink plenty of water to avoid constipation.
Bed rest often
results in constipation because when our muscles are at rest there is also
decreased movement in our digestive tract. Drinking plenty of water will make
your stool easier to pass.
Cut expenses.
Prolonged bed rest may mean lots of time off from work which can
translate to lost income. So be careful about how you spend your money and go
easy on the online shopping to ensure that your savings goals for your delivery
are still on track.
Catch up on your reading or your favorite TV series.
When your twins arrive, me time will become non-existent so
use this time to read that book you bought months ago but didn't have time to
read or watch that TV series or movie that you've always wanted to watch.
Bond with your babies.
Talk, sing or read to your twins. It may seem weird at first
but it will help your twins recognize your voice and boost bonding after birth.
Bed rest can really make you feel helpless but it's one of
the best things you can do to ensure the safety of your twins. Just always
remember to stay positive. The end goal is to keep your babies in your womb as
long as you can because each day they're in your womb will help reduce the time
they may spend in the NICU if they come early.
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