Is It Safe To Use A Sauna During Pregnancy?

Are you planning to use a sauna during your pregnancy? If so, it is important to understand the potential risks and take steps to ensure that you remain safe.

Although there is limited research on pregnant women, most doctors recommend avoiding saunas and hot tubs during the first trimester of pregnancy.

After this point, however, using a sauna may be considered generally safe as long as you are careful not to raise your core body temperature too high.

So let’s explore what precautions you should take when using a sauna or hot tub while pregnant.

Benefits of Using a Sauna During Pregnancy

A sauna can have many POSITIVE effects during pregnancy, so let's examine the benefits.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction

Using a sauna during pregnancy can be an extremely beneficial RELAXATION and stress relief. The sauna's heat helps calm the body and relax muscles, improving overall relaxation.

Studies have shown that using a sauna during pregnancy can help REDUCE cortisol levels (the hormone associated with stress) and even post-partum depression.

Improved Circulation

In addition to providing relaxation benefits, using a sauna also helps IMPROVE circulation throughout the body.

This allows oxygen-rich blood to reach the unborn baby more easily, promoting growth and DEVELOPMENT. It also aids in loosening stiff joints that commonly occur during pregnancy, helping relieve discomfort.

Reduced Pregnancy Discomfort

Finally, using a sauna can help reduce cramps and other COMMON discomforts associated with pregnancy.

The heat helps RELAX muscles in jeopardy areas, reducing aches and pains associated with these areas. Additionally, regular use may help alleviate morning sickness symptoms such as nausea or dizziness.

Potential Risks of Using a Sauna During Pregnancy

Although the benefits of using a sauna during pregnancy can be substantial, it is important to understand any potential RISKS involved.

Dehydration

Using a sauna while pregnant increases SWEATING and can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can reduce amniotic fluid levels, putting your baby at risk for complications.

To avoid dehydration, pregnant women should stay HYDRATED and limit their time in the sauna or hot tub to no more than 10 minutes.

High Temperatures

It is also important to be aware of your core temperature while using a sauna. Raising it too high can cause dizziness, lightheadedness and even OVERHEATING. The less blood flow to the baby, the greater risk of potential complications such as a birth defect during development.

While using a sauna or hot tub, it is important to keep your core temperature BELOW 102°F (38.9°C).

Pro Tip: Extreme heat is not recommended. Pregnant women should avoid using a sauna or hot tub if the temperature exceeds 110°F (43.3°C).

Avoid During The First Trimester

During EARLY pregnancy, your baby's organs are developing, and a sudden rise in core temperature can put them at risk of neural tube defects.

Therefore, most doctors recommend AVOIDING saunas and hot tubs during the first trimester of pregnancy to avoid birth defects.

According to the American Pregnancy Association, saunas can be generally safe during the second and third trimesters as long as you follow all necessary precautions [1].

Pro Tip: Pregnant women should take folic acid in early pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects.

Guidelines for Using a Sauna During Pregnancy

To ensure a safe and comfortable experience while using a sauna or hot tub during pregnancy, follow the guidelines below:

1. Stay well hydrated before, during and after your sauna session; drink at least 8 ounces of water every 10 minutes [2].

2. Limit sauna sessions to no more than 10 minutes each, and keep your core temperature below 102°F (38.9°C).

3. Avoid extreme heat, as temperatures exceeding 110°F (43.3°C) can cause overheating or dehydration.

4. Take breaks every 10 minutes and rest to help keep your core temperature in check.

5. Cool down after each session with a shower or cool cloth compress, as the heat can linger longer than expected.

6. Avoid saunas and hot tubs completely during the first trimester of pregnancy.

7. Consult with your healthcare provider before using a sauna or hot tub during pregnancy.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the relaxation and stress relief benefits of a sauna while ensuring the SAFETY of yourself and your baby. Remember: if in doubt, consult your healthcare provider before using any heat-based treatment during pregnancy.

Conclusion

The potential benefits of using a sauna during pregnancy can be substantial, but there are also potential risks. It is important to understand these risks and take steps to ensure you remain safe.

When using a sauna or hot tub during pregnancy, it is important to stay hydrated and keep your core body temperature below 102°F (38.9°C).

It is also best to limit your time in the sauna to no more than 10 minutes; if you experience any discomfort or dizziness while in the sauna or hot tub, it is best to get out immediately and seek medical advice if necessary.

By understanding the potential risks involved and taking proper precautions, you can enjoy the many relaxation benefits of a sauna during pregnancy.

Sources:

1. editor. Saunas During Pregnancy. American Pregnancy Association. Published May 2017. Accessed January 28, 2023. https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/is-it-safe/saunas-and-pregnancy/
2. NHS Choices. Is it safe to use a sauna or jacuzzi if I’m pregnant? Published 2023. Accessed January 28, 2023. https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/pregnancy/is-it-safe-to-use-a-sauna-or-jacuzzi-if-i-am-pregnant/