The Effects of Antepartum Bed Rest on the Pregnant Woman and her Family

Pregnant women have been prescribed bed rest for a variety of reasons:
preterm labor, incompetent cervix, high-blood pressure, multiple gestation, placenta previa, and many other
patient-specific complications. However, while the prescription of bed rest has become routine, the
effectiveness of this potentially harmful treatment is still controversial. Pregnant women that are confined to bed
rest are at an increased risk for physical, emotional and economic hardships. By understanding these effects,
utilizing appropriate interventions and educating this at-risk population on coping strategies, we as health care
providers, can improve the quality of care we give our patients during this life-changing event. KEY WORDS:
Antepartum, bed rest, high-risk pregnancy.