Pregnant and Infrared or the Sauna: A Guide to Safe Enjoyment

When you are pregnant, relaxation is not only welcome, but also necessary. The wellness offers a wonderful opportunity to relax. However, during this special period in your life, it is important to take into account some guidelines to ensure both your health and that of your unborn child. This article walks through the do's and don'ts of a wellness visit during pregnancy.

General advice

Before we dive into the specific wellness facilities, we'll start with some general advice: only visit a wellness center if you have a normal pregnancy. In addition, it is recommended to avoid wellness visits during your first trimester and the last six weeks of your pregnancy, given the increased risks during these times.

Sauna

The sauna is a popular facility for many, and good news: a sauna visit is permitted during pregnancy, subject to some conditions.

Do not sit for more than 10 minutes.
Sit on a towel and remain upright to avoid dizziness or shortness of breath.
Avoid the hottest spots by not sitting in the middle or top; stay closer to the floor.
Listen to your body and leave the sauna if you feel uncomfortable.

Infrared cabin

Unlike the traditional sauna, an infrared cabin is not recommended during pregnancy. The deeper penetration of the heat can quickly increase your core temperature, which is not desirable during this delicate period.

Steam cabin

A steam cabin is permitted under the same conditions as the sauna. Avoid sitting for more than 10 minutes and sit upright on a towel for safety and comfort.

Jacuzzi

A jacuzzi can be wonderfully relaxing, but pay attention to the following points:

The water should not be warmer than 38°C.
Limit your time in the jacuzzi to no longer than 15 minutes.
Avoid using the jacuzzi towards the end of your pregnancy due to an increased risk of infection.

Cold Shower or Plunge Bath

Cooling down after the heat is important, but observe the following guidelines:

Do not choose water colder than 20°C.
Let your body get used to the cold water gradually, starting with your hands and feet.
A plunge pool is not recommended due to the sudden temperature change.

Scrubs and Massages

Exfoliating is possible, but be careful if your skin is sensitive during pregnancy. Choose milder care products if you suffer from sensitive skin or pregnancy acne.

Massages are a fantastic way to relax, but make sure you choose a professional who specializes in pregnancy massages. Avoid massages with heat, such as hot stone massages, as they can increase your core temperature.