Activity Restriction and Bed Rest in Pregnancy - Insufficient Evidence for Use and Potential Harms
It seems to make sense that "bed rest" during pregnancy, especially one that is threatening preterm labor or other complications, would be helpful. I mean, wouldn't staying in bed, rather than doing her normal activities, be a good thing for a mother and her baby? The answer is NO. Bed rest actually increases risks for the mother and baby and causes a great emotional and financial toll on many families. Understand that this is only referring to complete activity restriction and strict bed rest, not to say that pregnant women should not rest. You should listen to your body and rest when you need to, always. The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology published 3 articles in its recent June 2013 issue about bed rest and the unethical use of this practice. Let's take a look at the research and put this issue to rest ! THE ROOTS OF BED REST (1) Historically, bed rest was intended for orthopedic ailments, but quickly spread to all areas of medicine, without question of it...