When Your Partner Must Labor in Bed
Comfort strategies for bed rest during labor
Why Bed Rest Happens
Sometimes the care team recommends or requires that your partner stay in bed during labor. This can happen with continuous fetal monitoring, an epidural, IV medications, or certain complications. Bed rest does not mean comfort is impossible. There are many strategies that work well in bed.
Position Options in Bed
- Side-lying with a pillow between the knees. This is one of the most comfortable positions for bed rest and allows easy access for back massage or counterpressure
- Semi-sitting, propped up with pillows behind the back. This position uses gravity to help the baby descend while keeping your partner in bed
- Side-lying with the top leg bent and resting on a pillow. This opens the pelvis on one side and can help with rotation
- Hands-and-knees on the bed if the head of the bed is raised or if a peanut ball is available to lean on
The Peanut Ball
A peanut ball is a large, peanut-shaped exercise ball that can be placed between your partner's legs while side-lying. It keeps the hips open and can help the baby descend. Many hospitals have peanut balls available. Ask the nurse if one can be used. If a peanut ball is not available, a rolled-up blanket or pillow between the knees can provide some of the same benefit.
What You Can Do
When your partner is in bed, your role as a support person becomes even more important. Offer counterpressure on the lower back during contractions. Help your partner change positions every 30 to 60 minutes. Offer sips of water through a straw. Use a cool washcloth on the forehead and neck. Keep the room calm and dim. Remind your partner that being in bed is not a setback. The body is still doing the work.