New Thinking on Risky Pregnancies

Many pregnant women have been told to stay in bed to prevent complications or premature birth, but new research suggests that bed rest doesn't help and may actually bring more risks. Studies have found that resting in bed can cause blood clots, muscle atrophy, bone loss, and psychological effects such as stress and depression. Some doctors still think that bed rest is comforting for pregnant women, while others only recommend it in extreme cases or not at all. A bulletin issued by the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states, "Although bed rest and hydration have been recommended to women with symptoms of preterm labor to prevent preterm delivery, these measures have not been shown to be effective for the prevention of preterm birth and should not be routinely recommended." Rather than traditional bed rest, some doctors now recommend limiting activity.

The Wall Street Journal, 7/15/13