• 

Sidelines is a nonprofit organization that provides support, education and advocacy to women with high-risk pregnancies. It has community-based chapters throughout the country. All of Sidelines' volunteers are women who have experienced a complicated pregnancy. Call for a referral to a local chapter, and request a patient packet and a copy of Left Sidelines magazine.

Mothers of Supertwins (MOST). A nonprofit organization devoted to education and resources for families expecting triplets or more.

Twins Magazine, 800-328-3211. A publication for families of multiple births.

Triplet Connection. A nonprofit organization providing information and resources to families expecting triplets or more.

National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs (NOMTC), 877-540-2200. A nonprofit nationwide support group for parents of twins and higher multiple-order children.

March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation, 914-428-7100. A nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of babies by reducing birth defects and infant mortality.

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), 202-638-5577

If you are reading this article because you have a friend or relative on bed rest, here are a few suggestions from the sidelines:

• Bring her some lotion or hand cream (instead of chocolate).
• Call/email her often.
• Send her a card.
• Fluff her pillows.
• Buy her the latest best selling book.
• Bring her a bottle of flavored sparkling water.
• Remind her of the wonderful thing that she is doing!

Conclusion

Being confined to bed during your pregnancy is a difficult assignment. Although you may feel bored and unproductive, please keep in mind that this may ultimately be the most productive, courageous, and fulfilling task you complete. Hang in there!

Jeri Alper is a healthcare consultant specializing in the area of Women's Health. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Pennsylvania.

As a registered nurse and nurse practitioner, Ms. Alper has extensive experience in the field of high risk obstetrics and infertility. In this capacity, Ms. Alper provided education to patients regarding preterm labor and assisted in the management of their high risk pregnancies. Additionally, Ms. Alper was the Administrator of the Mount Sinai Assisted Reproductive Technologies Program for three years.

Permission to republish retained by Pregnancy.org, LLC

Send Page To a Friend