Has your doctor prescribed pelvic rest during your pregnancy? Pelvic rest isn't the same as bed rest or activity restriction, but it does mean you'll have to limit perhaps one of your most favorite activities. Read on to find out what pelvic rest means for you and your pregnancy.
What is pelvic rest?
Pelvic rest is OB-speak for limiting sexual activity during pregnancy — in other words: no sex. But what's exactly off-limits in the bedroom? It depends on your particular circumstances, but your practitioner may advise avoiding penetrative sex or orgasms altogether. Don't hesitate to ask the doctor for more specifics if you're unsure.
Pelvic rest can also sometimes include restrictions on activities that might increase pelvic pressure or pelvic muscle contractions. These can include:
- Brisk walking
- Squatting
- Vigorous lower body exercises
- Any other activity that may strain the pelvic floor
Why might you be put on pelvic rest during pregnancy?
Your practitioner may put you on pelvic rest if any of these circumstances apply to you:
- History of miscarriage
- History of preterm labor
- Bleeding during pregnancy
- Placenta previa or another placental condition
- Cervical insufficiency, short cervix or cervical dilation
- A hernia during pregnancy that puts you at risk for preterm labor
- Signs of preterm labor
How does pelvic rest affect pregnancy?
If you’ve been told sex is off the table during your pregnancy and you’ll have to abstain, make sure you get the details from your practitioner of what that means.
Is the sex ban for your entire pregnancy or is it only temporary? What does "no sex" mean: No penetration? Is foreplay okay? Can you use a vibrator? Is oral sex allowed? What about orgasms?
Pregnancy Complications and Symptoms
And while pelvic rest isn’t the same as bed rest — meaning you’ll likely be able to continue your normal daily activities — ask your practitioner for the green light on brisk walking, squatting, strenuous lower body exercises or any other activity that may put extra pressure on your pelvic floor just to be sure.
Benefits of pelvic rest when you’re pregnant
Being told you have to miss out on sex during pregnancy can feel so unfair (especially if you’re feeling — and looking — your sexiest!) but there’s a reason behind the pelvic rest edict. It’s to make sure you don’t do anything that might increase pelvic pressure or make contractions of the pelvic muscles more likely.
After all, those contractions may spell trouble if you’re already at risk of preterm labor, or if you have a history of miscarriage or bleeding during pregnancy.
Pelvic rest keeps your pelvic area, well ... resting, and reduces the risk of bleeding and contractions. And that will keep your higher-risk pregnancy as safe as possible.
When to call the doctor
All pregnant women should call the doctor if they notice any of the following signs, but if you’re on pelvic rest, it means you’re at even higher risk of complications or preterm labor. Be sure to contact your practitioner immediately if you have:
- Fluid leaking from your vagina
- Vaginal bleeding
- Contractions
- Pain or pressure in your vagina
- Unusual cramps or back pain
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