Decreased activity may decrease fluctuation of blood pressure in women with high blood pressure. For cervical incompetence or very dilated cervix, bedrest may improve outcome by removing the effect of gravity.
Bed rest can cause depression and anxiety, lower self-esteem and less satisfaction with body.
The specific recommendations for amount of time to rest and what activities are OK to do will be made by the patient s obstetrical provider. May walk short distances such as from car into clinic or store for short shopping trip.