During pregnancy, many women try to relax and relieve tension. It's natural for them to face periods of increased stress due to the physical, emotional and even practical changes they are going through.
One of the most common doubts is whether a pregnant woman can have a sauna session to relax and relieve anxiety.
Can a pregnant woman take a sauna? Does a sauna during pregnancy protect mother and baby?
Read on and find out the answer to this very common question. But first, you should know that Saunamo is the company of choice for buying a sauna in Portugal.
What is a sauna?
A sauna is a small heated room where you can enjoy steam baths or dry heat. This warm environment promotes perspiration and circulation, helping to detoxify the body and relieve stress.
There are 3 types of sauna. The Finnish sauna, the Turkish bath and the infrared sauna.
Can a pregnant woman sauna safely?
The safety of saunas during pregnancy is a topic that generates a lot of doubt and debate.
In general, prolonged exposure to intense heat is not recommended for pregnant women. Excessive heat can increase the internal body temperature, which can pose a risk to the baby's development, especially during the first trimester.
There are doctors who advise pregnant women not to use the sauna throughout their pregnancy because during this period the pregnant woman is more likely to suffer from lower blood pressure due to the changes caused in her body.
It is therefore crucial that any pregnant woman consults her doctor before using the sauna. If you don't want to take any risks, it's best not to.
What are the risks of saunas for pregnant women?
The main risks of a sauna session for a pregnant woman include:
- Hyperthermia: An increase in body temperature that can harm the development of the fetus;
- Dehydration: Excessive perspiration can lead to a loss of essential fluids;
- Low blood pressure: Intense heat can cause a drop in pressure, resulting in dizziness or fainting;
- Discomfort: The hot environment can be uncomfortable for some pregnant women, increasing the risk of discomfort.
A sauna for a pregnant woman can cause some discomfort. Ideally, during pregnancy, you should re-evaluate your sauna use with your doctor.
What other options are there for a pregnant woman to relax?
If you're looking for a way to relax, know that there are safer and more effective options for this period of pregnancy that don't involve exposure to high temperatures.
Here are some options that are alternatives to the pregnancy sauna:
- take a hot bath
- prenatal massage therapy
- practice breathing exercises
- performing prenatal yoga
- use a jacuzzi with a safe temperature
We know that you probably use saunas and would like to continue getting all the benefits, such as stress relief, improved circulation or pain relief.
Think that it will be a momentary interruption and after your baby is born you can resume this practice which improves your quality of life and general well-being.
Tips for safe sauna use during pregnancy
As we've mentioned, you should always consult your doctor during pregnancy. If you decide to go ahead with a sauna session during your pregnancy, here are some basic precautions you should take into account:
- Medical consultation: First of all, consult your doctor for a professional opinion.
- Moderate temperature: Keep the sauna temperature lower than usual. It should never exceed 30ºC. In the Finnish sauna, temperatures vary between 70ºC and 100ºC. In the Turkish bath, the temperature is lower, ranging from 40ºC to 50ºC.
- Limited time: A maximum of 10 minutes in the sauna.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water before and after the session to avoid dehydration.
- Accompaniment: Never use the sauna alone. Always have someone nearby to help in case of need.
- Pay attention to the body's signals: If you feel any discomfort, dizziness or malaise, leave the sauna immediately.
The important thing is that you proceed only after getting your doctor's approval, and be very careful to safeguard your safety and that of your baby.
Invest in a sauna at Saunamo!
At Saunamo, a sauna manufacturer, we understand the importance of well-being at any time of life. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you can start preparing the project to install a sauna in your home so that you can use it safely after the baby is born. Find out how much a sauna costs.
We offer a variety of saunas and jacuzzis that can be adjusted to provide a relaxing and safe experience.
Our team is on hand to advise on the best options for each case, ensuring that each client's specific needs are met. Investing in a sauna from Saunamo is investing in your health and well-being.