They can try to stay connected with friends and family through phone calls or video chats. This helps with the feeling of isolation.
Women on bedrest should focus on positive thinking. They can create a routine for themselves, like having a set time for a short nap, reading a chapter of a book, or listening to music. It's also important to communicate with their healthcare providers regularly so that any concerns or emerging problems can be addressed quickly. One woman I know made a list of things she was grateful for each day during her bedrest period, which really helped her mental state.
Engaging in light mental activities like reading books or doing crosswords can keep their minds occupied. Also, they can do simple exercises that are allowed during bedrest, like ankle rotations, to prevent some physical problems. For example, a friend of mine on bedrest would do hand - held resistance exercises which made her feel a bit more in control of her body.
There was a woman who was put on bedrest in the later stages of pregnancy. She was so bored and restless. Her family tried to help but it wasn't the same. She developed anxiety because she was used to being active. She would lie there all day thinking about all the things that could go wrong during the delivery. The whole experience of bedrest made her pregnancy seem more like a prison sentence rather than a happy time.
One way to cope is to talk to others who have been through similar experiences. Just sharing your fears and concerns can be a great relief. For example, joining a pregnancy support group where you can hear from women who overcame difficult situations during their pregnancies.
Some women rely on their support network. Family and friends can provide practical help like cooking, cleaning, and babysitting for older children. This gives the mother - to - be some time to rest. Others turn to support groups, either in person or online. There, they can share their experiences with other women who are going through or have been through a twin pregnancy. It makes them feel less alone.
Communication is key. The pregnant woman should sit down with her mother - in - law and calmly explain how she feels. For example, she can say 'I understand you want to be involved, but your constant criticism is stressing me out.'
Some women are initially in denial. They can't believe that they are pregnant when they had no idea before. For example, they might keep repeating that there must be some mistake. But then they start to come to terms with it. They may seek support from their families and friends.
Mentally, they had to be strong. They knew the importance of their job. Despite seeing destruction all around, they focused on saving what they could. They also learned from each other's experiences during the event. Some might have come up with new strategies on the spot to deal with the unexpected situations in the Black Saturday fires.
After finding out, women often face a mix of emotions. They may be scared about the health of the baby since they didn't know they were pregnant and might not have been taking proper care. They may also feel guilty. However, they usually start making changes in their lifestyle. They cut out bad habits like smoking or excessive drinking if they had them. They also start making plans for the baby's arrival, like preparing a nursery or buying baby clothes, while also coming to terms with the new reality of motherhood.
One way women cope is by making lifestyle adjustments. They might break their daily food intake into smaller, more frequent meals. Also, relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing can be helpful. However, it's not easy. Some women have to constantly remind themselves that this is a temporary phase. They also need the understanding of their employers, as in some cases they have to take extended leave from work. And continuous communication with their healthcare providers is essential to adjust treatment plans as the pregnancy progresses.
One way is through seeking support from family and friends. Their love and understanding can be a great comfort.
Some women overcame difficulties by following strict medical regimens. For example, taking prescribed medications to regulate hormones and reduce the growth of endometrial tissue.