Bed rest in pregnancy and its related complications: Is it needed?

Abstract

For centuries it is common myth to advice bed rest during pregnancy. At the least pretext bed rest is advised by family members and by health care providers also. But review of literature and RCT shows that in reality bed rest does not alter the course of pregnancy in various complications. Role of bed rest has been examined in singleton, twin and triplet pregnancies but was not found useful. Prolonged bed rest is rather harmful as it causes increased calcium excretion, loss of muscle mass, financial loss and increased psychological rest for the pregnant woman and her family. Moderate exercise is advisable throughout pregnancy to maintain tone of muscles and range of movements. So till we have more proof we should be cautious in advising pregnant patients about bed rest. It can be limited activity where we feel it is not advisable to overexert her.