Can you use a spa when pregnant? (Considerations, advice and more).

Can I go in a spa when pregnant?

You may have a spa pool at home or have a vacation booked where you planned to relax and soak away the hours in a hot tub. Before getting in, it is important to consider the pros and cons and if there is any safety risk to you or your baby.

**Three reasons medical professionals may suggest you avoid spas when pregnant: **

1. Overheating
2. Feeling faint
3. Water temperature
4. Water cleanliness

As with all health conditions, it's important to speak to a healthcare professional about your options and what you should and shouldn't be concerned about, especially during pregnancy.

How hot can a spa be when pregnant?

Soaking in a hot bath, spring, or spa pool can raise your core body temperature so it’s important to consider how to stay cool.

During pregnancy, medical professionals often suggest that your body temperature shouldn’t rise above 39°C. Especially during the first trimester, professionals recommend this precaution because a rise in temperature could result in birth defects, such as brain and spinal cord abnormalities.

If the hot pool you are considering has an adjustable temperature, you could turn it down to 36°C or lower. The lower the temperature, the lower the risk.

How long should I stay in the spa while pregnant?

In the first trimester, many medical professionals suggest it is best to be cautious and avoid hot tubs altogether or only use them for a very limited period of time, under 10 minutes. An alternative is to dip your feet in the warm water or sit on the side of the spa for a short period of time.

If you're using the spa pool with friends or family, ask if they'd be willing to reduce the temperature ahead of time. A lower temperature significantly reduces your risk of overheating and will be more comfortable for you.

An average hot tub will take between 30 minutes to 1 hour to reduce in temperature by 1°C. You can kick start the process by leaving the cover off for a few hours, running the jets to allow the water to circulate and adding some cool water or even adding a bit of ice to the water.

When to avoid spa pools and hot tubs during pregnancy?

It is generally advised to avoid hot tubs during the first trimester or if you have a high-risk pregnancy, as they can be dangerous for the developing baby if the temperature is too high.

Some pregnant women also feel faint during pregnancy and the warm water and steam from a spa pool can increase feelings of dizziness and nausea. If you are unsure you can check with a medical professional to get some specific advice for your pregnancy.

Can I use a spa pool in my third trimester over 6 month’s pregnant?

If you’re past the first trimester and want to use a hot tub after getting a medical professionals advice, here’s a few tips to consider:

• Use the spa for no more than 10 minutes at a time
• take breaks in between to cool off
• If the hot water jets are on, sit on the side where the water is slightly cooler
• Get out of the tub immediately if you feel too hot, dizzy or experience nausea
• If you have a fever, don't use the hot tub.

It’s always important to stay hydrated while using a spa but especially so if you are pregnant, so make sure to have a drink bottle handy.