Sauna use has been an integral part of many cultures for centuries, with benefits for both our physical and mental wellbeing. Many women, however, wonder if it is safe during pregnancy.
Let’s take a closer look at what the doctors say, so you can enjoy a safe sauna experience during pregnancy.
Sauna Aladdin Oak
SAUNA DURING PREGNANCY: WHAT DO THE DOCTORS SAY?
Recent scientific research (the findings are based on a review of studies published by the British Journal of Sports Medicine) suggests there is no specific risk for mums-to-be if they engage in active or passive high-temperature activities.
In fact the study shows that a woman’s ability to regulate her core body temperature is actually enhanced during pregnancy.
What you do need to take into consideration, however, is your general health: pregnancy can be physically debilitating for some women, with them feeling especially tired and dehydrated. If you fall into this group of women, you should take care; avoid excessive fluctuations in temperature and seek your doctor’s advice should you wish to take a sauna.
Sauna control panel
THE FIRST TRIMESTER: IS IT REALLY THE MOST CRITICAL STAGE IN PREGNANCY?
The first trimester is generally considered the most critical in pregnancy and you will often hear people recommend complete rest during this time.
But it’s not a hard and fast rule: all women are different and a lot depends on the type of life you lead or your particular state of health.
The important thing is to listen to your body and act accordingly: if, during the first few weeks of your pregnancy, you don’t feel overly tired or suffer from other complaints, there’s no reason to change your lifestyle, so you should keep exercising and enjoying relaxation treatments like the sauna or Hammam.
Natural Infrared Cabin
FINNISH SAUNA VS INFRARED CABIN FOR EXPECTANT MUMS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
The difference between a traditional sauna and an infrared cabin lies in the way they heat the body: a Finnish sauna reaches higher temperatures (up to 90/100°C at times), while infrared cabins heat the body with light waves at lower temperatures (around 40°C).
If you want (or need) to avoid intense heat stress but still want to enjoy a sauna during your pregnancy, an infrared cabin is definitely the way to go.
Infrared control panel
WHAT ARE THE CONTRAINDICATIONS OF USING A SAUNA WHILE PREGNANT?
A sauna is a heated cabin designed to provide a dry or humid heat experience.
Exposure to intense heat dilates the blood vessels, increasing blood flow and improving circulation. This, in turn, can offer a number of health benefits, such as relieving stress, relaxing the muscles, improving our skin’s appearance and reducing muscle pain.
However, for our body to get the most out of this experience, we have to be on tip-top form: sudden changes in temperature put our body under stress and this should be avoided if we are in any kind of weakened state.
The contraindications of using the sauna during pregnancy include the risk of overheating, dehydration and low blood pressure. So the golden rule is: be aware of your limits and, most important of all, listen to your body.
Natural Sauna
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU HAVE TAKEN A SAUNA WITHOUT KNOWING YOU WERE PREGNANT?
In light of everything we’ve discussed, you shouldn’t be too concerned if you engaged in one or more sauna sessions before you realised you were pregnant.
If you’re well and the sauna had a positive, relaxing effect on you, there’s no risk for your health or that of your baby.
If, on the other hand, you are suffering from fatigue or other complaints, it’s best to be on the safe side and consult your doctor.
