PELVIC REST: WHAT IS IT & WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR YOU?
Nearly all surrogates will be ordered on “pelvic rest” for at least part of their surrougacy journey. Although it is a common requirement, this instruction can be a source of confusion and uncertainty for many surrogates. To clarify expectations, let's explore what pelvic rest means, when it is necessary, how long it generally lasts, and what it means for you and your surrogacy journey.
WHAT IS PELVIC REST?
In simplest terms, pelvic rest means that you are to abstain from sexual intercourse, orgasms (even those achieved by external methods), and insertion of anything into the vagina with the exception of medications. Do note that pelvic rest in pregnancy is not the same as bed rest.
PELVIC REST VS. BED REST FOR PREGNANCY
Bed rest typically means staying in bed except to bathe and use the bathroom. Being on pelvic rest means you can do all of your normal day-to-day activities; you just want to be careful to avoid straining the pelvic area or having penetrative sex. You can talk to your doctor about what type of sexual relations you may still be able to engage in if you wish.
You may be placed on rest following the embryo transfer, usually for a 24-hour period. You could also be placed on bed rest or pelvic rest later in the pregnancy, to ensure that you reach the 35-week gestation mark before delivery. This type of rest means to simply relax and rest. While using the restroom and sitting upright to eat are OK, lifting more than 10 pounds or exercising are generally to be avoided. Your physician will discuss any restrictions with you.
WHEN IS PELVIC REST NECESSARY?
Pelvic rest will usually begin the day of your embryo transfer and will not end until your doctor clears you for normal sexual activity. This means that, just as every pregnancy is different, there will be a great varying of release times from pelvic rest. All surrogates are asked to maintain pelvic rest for at least four weeks. While some surrogates may be released as soon as heartbeat confirmation, others may be asked to continue pelvic rest longer, sometimes through the course of the entire first trimester. This variation can be caused by several reasons, including the following:
Concerns over implantation
Varying medical protocols
Conduct preferences of the intended parents
Because of these varying reasons, it is important that you do not follow guidelines given to any other surrogate or even given to you in another pregnancy or surrogacy. This pregnancy is unique to you, and the medical protocol will be adjusted uniquely to your current situation.
LEARN MORE ABOUT PELVIC REST RESTRICTIONS
If you have any questions about being released from pelvic rest or what allowances you may have, be sure to ask your individual nurse or care provider. They will have the best, most up-to-date information from your medical notes and will be able to provide you with the most personalized answer that ensures the best probability of success for your journey.
As a premier surrogacy agency, Growing Generations is honored to support surrogates throughout their journey to make the experience as enriching as possible. For more information about surrogacy, please reach out to us.