Laying Low

At my first appointment, my OB mentioned that approxiately 50% of moms carrying twins will end up on bed rest.  I had no idea that my bed rest would start as early as it did.

My pregnancy had been going pretty smoothly and I was feeling great.  During a twin pregnancy, the cervical length is measured frequently.  Due to extra pressure from the second baby, this length can shorten, which is often an indicator of being at an increased risk of pre-term labor.  At 24 weeks gestation my cervical length had begun to shorten.  I was told to lay low over the next week and had a repeat ultrasound completed at 25 weeks gestation.  I immediately saw the length on the ultrasound and knew I would be placed on bed rest. I did not know, however, that I would be hospitalized overnight for observation.  During this hospitalization, I received two steroid shots, which would help mature the babies's lungs if I should deliver early.  I was discharged the next day to strict bed rest at home. 

25 Weeks

Strict bed rest meant one quick shower a day, eating most of my meals on the couch, and staying as supine as possible, lying on my left side primarily.  I quickly made myself get into a routine to prevent going crazy.  I also found a list of bed rest exercises to do to help maintain as much of my muscle tone as possible.  It was hard to believe that 9 months ago I was running a marathon and now here I was laid up on the couch! 

I spent the next five weeks on bed rest at home.  I think these twins will be athletes because what better timing to go on bed rest than during the Olympics!  Those two weeks of Olympic coverage made the time go quickly and I got to enjoy some sports I've never seen!  In my opnion this was the MOST ideal time to be on bed rest and I think my babies knew I would enjoy it. 

I also spent my time reading, doing crosswords, Words With Friends, online shopping :), napping, and a lot of time on the internet.  My dad came down a few days a week to keep me company and I had friends and other family members who would drop in.  Our neighborhood was wonderful when I was on bedrest.  Twice a week neighbors would bring meals over to our house (we always had enough for leftovers), and they also paid to have a cleaning lady come to our house.  Besides that, one neighbor placed a storage box on our porch which allowed people to drop off magazines, books and other things to help occupy my time.  My parents also helped with laundry and cleaning and watched Alena when Justin needed a break.  We are forever grateful for the help we received during this time...