Bedrest. This is when you are prescribed to relax and take it easy. Many fertility clinics require surrogates to stay on bed rest for 48-72 hours post transfer to help keep that little embryo safe and snug. Or if you are already pregnant, you may be prescribed to lounge for longer periods of time due to other medical reasons. Bed rest sounds great in theory, but sometimes it can get a little boring. That first day is awesome. You catch up on Facebook, emails, a book you have been meaning to start, you talk with old friends you have been meaning to call… but then what?  It also depends on how long you have to lounge. Here are 10 ideas on how to keep yourself entertained while on bed rest.

1) Netflix

You can watch a ton of shows dating back to the 90’s like Friends or Seinfeld or binge watch some of their award-winning Netflix Original series.

2) FaceTime, Skype, WhatsApp

Make sure your lighting is good! If you have friends that live far away or even abroad, FaceTime will keep you from getting lonely! Take the time to catch up, or take the opportunity to tell friends and family about your journey.

3) Food Delivery Apps

Meal-prep is a great idea, pre-transfer. But, if you didn’t have time for meal prep, there are a few apps available that allow you to order food from your favorite local restaurants and have it delivered right to your door! As you are allowed to get up to go to the bathroom, going to the front door and back to bed with one of your favorite foods is usually allowed!

4) Read a Book

Reading is a great way to explore without actually leaving your house. Plus, what is better than settling down with a good book?

5) Your Tablet

This a is guaranteed way to pass the time. Ever hear of the Pinterest hole? You can spend hours (sometimes without even knowing it) browsing through recipes, workouts, design ideas and DIY projects on this one app. On top of the ability to redesign your house in one app, there are also many apps with some great games that help entertain you in your moments of rest.

6) Treat Yourself

Try to treat yourself to a few small treats that you wouldn’t normally indulge in when you are not confined to your sleeping quarters.

7) Nap

Now is the time to do it, but beware! Too much napping during the day can be a recipe for a restless or sleepless night.

8) Online Shopping

Don’t go crazy with online shopping; it can be dangerous. You can also use this as the opportunity to research and compare prices from different online stores for that piece of furniture, jewelry or pair of shoes you have had your heart set on. Also, you can create your children’s Christmas list on Amazon no matter what time of year it is!

However you spend your time, make comfort your priority. If you have any other suggestions about how you spent your time on bedrest, let us know at Shared Conception so we can tell other surrogates!