I dont think they get it

MariDave01

How do you comply wth dr orders of strict bed rest when your famly just doesnt seem to get it. I was placed on bedrest at 21/22 wks due to cervical shortening. However really feel like my famly just doesnt get it or they dont care.  am not suppost to be up but to go to the bathroom, eat and shower. However no one wants to help set me up for the day, makes sure  food prepared or cares how many times I go up and down the stairs or drive, yes I am driving. Lossing my mind and becomng depressed. Any suggestions (talkng, screamng and crying have not worked... want to just say FI).  

MayDay386

First of all, I want to say that I am so sorry that you have to deal with that, it is such a stressful time as it is, and without support I can only imagine how much harder it is.

I am also on strict bedrest and I understand how much it takes to get set up for the day. As awful as this may sound, maybe the family/your support needs to be educated on the issues with premature infants and the struggles that the NICU can bring. A little reality check maybe a good thing, its scary.  Its not like you are doing this for you - it is now all about the baby. Thats what has made it easier on me, is that it is now all about our little boy. Maybe bring family to OB appointments and have a little discussion all together about the situation and the importance of following this order. If it doesn't come from you maybe they will get it.

Are there any friends that you can call to help you? Maybe if the family sees that you need to get outside help then it will light a fire for them.

I am really sorry, I guess I don't have that many helpful tips for you, but keep trying and don't give up. Keep your eyes on the healthy baby, and keep that the first thing in your mind. Good luck!

cbkittner

While it would obviously be ideal if your family were all on board and helping, I have found that once my DH leaves the house with my daughter, I'm fine getting my stuff and slowly making my way downstairs. 

From the first day, I've packed a large handbag with everything I will need with me downstairs.  We are lucky to also have leftovers or something easy I can eat during the day.  While I'm only supposed to get up for the bathroom, drinking over 60oz water a day makes me have to get up for that multiple times.  The bathroom is right next to the kitchen, so I usually time a bathroom break with getting some snack/lunch/water etc.  I also have a small cooler that I can keep water, and small snacks close to the couch, and upstairs by the bed in my room we have a mini fridge with some snacks as well. 

I second the idea to bring your DH or other family to an OB appt, and suggest reaching out to friends who may offer help.

Good luck!

AllyInMaine

I went through this (to some extent) with my first pregnancy. It wasn't until I brought my DH and MIL to an appt with me and my OB was over-the-top about my condition. This was at 30 weeks... she said if I didn't stay off my feet she was admitting me to the hospital and I'd be there until I delivered. After that, my MIL was telling everyone else what to do... and DH realized how serious bedrest is for a high risk momma. Good luck and don't let them make you feel bad. All that matters is the health of the little one inside you.