Avoiding or Delaying Bed Rest When Carrying Twins. Realistically, when you are pregnant with multiples you will probably have some activity restrictions. To delay them and avoid bed rest, there are several things you can try:
• Get as much rest as possible, including cutting your work hours and taking naps on the weekend and after work.
• Try to avoid stressful situations. Don’t overdo it with walking, housework, stair climbing, or heavy lifting.
• Be vigilant about getting enough fluids every day.
• Know the signs and symptoms of preterm labor and PIH.
• Contact your doctor if you experience anything you think may be a problem.
These measures may preserve your energy and stamina and let you remain up and active a little longer, or even for the whole pregnancy. But remember: Bed rest is not a punishment, it is a treatment to help rest your body. The goal each day is to get one more day in the womb for your babies and one less day in the NICU. Make a promise to yourself that if your OB Provider wants you on bed rest you won’t fight it and you’ll do your best to get though this temporary detour in your pregnancy journey.
It's important to avoid going stir crazy or getting too emotional about bed rest. If you can take measures to avoid it by staying healthy, that is great.
But when the time comes to go on bed rest, be sure that you are prepared for it. Once you know you are having twins, it's a good thing to mentally prepare for this eventuality.
Have lots to do to keep your mind occupied. Take the time to watch those movies you've been putting off for a long time or read those books you always wanted to read.
You can even spend your time going through catalogs or looking on the Internet for baby products, like a double stroller or a new bed for the little ones.
Above all, make sure you have a good support system of friends and family to help keep your spirits up during this period of bed rest.
And don't forget to rest, take this time while you have it to get some rest and take a break from the busy-ness of life.
I agree – twins are double the trouble so it's worth spending a good deal of time preparing. Stay healthy through diet and moderate exercise.