Got Quads?

In theory it probably sounds pretty nice to have your doctor tell you to stay in bed and not do a thing. The first few days of bed rest can be enjoyable… laying around, watching TV, maybe reading a book. But try 23 weeks of it and you’ll realize bed rest isn’t as great as it sounds. Five weeks into my pregnancy I was so nauseous I couldn’t do anything but lay in bed with my eyes closed. Looking at anything made me sick, as did any noise. Finally at about week 20 I was able to sit up more, watch TV and read some books. I wasn’t on a restricted bed rest so I could get up and sit on the porch or even just take a shower. Clearly, my bed rest experience differed from the “normal” bed rest. There are ways to survive it.

• Find a hobby: Have you ever wanted to learn to knit? Now is the time. Maybe you’re interested in learning a new language or perfecting the art of decoupage (ok, that one might be tricky in bed). Whatever you’ve been putting off, give it a go during this time.

• Get a head start on your baby book: Many baby books have a lot of general pages you can fill out ahead of time (parent info, family info, current events). I’m so behind on my baby books that it would have been great to take my own advice on this.

• Address your baby announcements: Some companies will let you order your envelopes separate from your announcements. Address and stamp the envelopes now so you only have to slip the announcements in once your baby arrives.

• Catch up on the movies or books you’ve neglected: Certainly there are movies you’ve been meaning to see but just haven’t had the time to rent. I wish I had been a Netflix member during my bed rest.

• Invite friends over: Just because you can’t leave your bed doesn’t mean people can’t come see you. Have them bring your favorite food or the latest work gossip.

• Get active on a message board: Obviously this only works if you have WIFI. Sidelines is a support group specifically for women on bed rest. Find other moms who have been there, done that to help you through this.

• Rest! It may sound silly but you’ll be wishing you had time to sleep once your baby arrives.

Just remember, this too shall pass. Bed rest was the most excruciating part of my pregnancy, but it’s over, it’s done and now I have four beautiful daughters who were well worth it!