So my work bestie went into preterm labor earlier this week, they stopped the contractions, released her from the hospital yesterday, but put her on bed rest. The goal is minimum 34 weeks, and the doctor will be thrilled with making it to 36 weeks (30 days away).
What I want to know is, anyone that has been on bed rest, what is something that was helpful to you? What can I do to make it a little easier on/for her?
apricot / 253 posts
I was on hospital bed rest from 28 weeks with my son. Visits were super helpful, as it was pretty isolating.
I'm not sure what she's allowed to do at home (can she take a shower?), but someone brought me dry shampoo and some fun hair accessories to use since I have LONG hair and wasn't going to be able to stand and style it.
I took up cross stitch while I was on bed rest - so maybe there's a new hobby she might be interested in? Coloring books or crossword puzzles (depending on her interests)?
Another fun suggestion someone had was bringing a pedicure to her. I spent a lot of time just staring at my toes. I never did this, but I thought it would have been so nice to have someone come and give me a simple pedicure (just maybe no intense foot massage!)
Just some ideas off of the top of my head. I hope all goes well for her! There are also lots of good Facebook communities for Moms on bed rest that help pass the time.
nectarine / 2951 posts
I was on modified bedrest forever due to a previa. It was nice when people gave us meals. My best friend sent a bunch of coloring books and colored pencils. I also taught myself to crochet.
grapefruit / 4492 posts
She is allowed to get up to go to the bathroom and to shower for now. I already took up a collection at work to finish out the last $100 worth of stuff on her registry that she was worried about.
I'll definitely look into crosswords and stuff to take her. Her husband does a lot of the cooking already, but I'm sure he'd welcome a break.
apricot / 409 posts
Thats so thoughtful of you! Preterm labor is scary. I was on home bedrest for a couple months and in and out of the hospital for a week or two. If she's at home, I agree, meals were also nice. Friends gave me some coloring books, crochet supplies, snacks, etc which I really appreciated. Does she have other kids? Some people got some small stuff for my older DD and played with her. It helped since I couldn't really move.
grapefruit / 4492 posts
@tiramisu: this is her first baby, so at least she isn't dealing with all the stress I imagine that comes with preterm labor and other children.
nectarine / 2460 posts
I'm not sure what your work situation is but this happened to my work bff and she was super grateful for work tasks that could be easily completed remotely while on bedrest. It helped take her mind off the worry of having a preemie and then she could justify that she was working and not have to use any leave prior to the birth since there was pretty assuredly going to be NICU time. This might not be within your control or practical with your work though.
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