Especially if it was part of your self-care routine prior to becoming pregnant, you might be wondering if it’s a good idea to continue to use a sauna during your pregnancy. While the choice is ultimately yours, and there’s little research that’s been done, it’s recommended to limit your use of a hot sauna during pregnancy to less than 15 minutes at a time, and to skip it altogether during the early stages and if it causes you to feel unwell. 

Is it Safe to Use a Sauna During Pregnancy?

The biggest consideration when determining whether or not to use a sauna (or a hot tub) during your pregnancy is the heat. Most saunas reach temperatures between 150°F and 195°F (65°C to 90°C), and it only takes a few minutes for your body temperature to rise which could potentially be dangerous for a developing baby. Very little research has been done therefore most doctors choose to err on the side of caution and usually don’t recommend expecting mothers to use a sauna or hot tub during pregnancy. 

The time to be most cautious is during your first trimester when the embryo is most vulnerable, and this is when it’s generally recommended to skip using a sauna altogether. Pregnant women are at a greater risk for dehydration, dizziness and lower blood pressure in general, and these symptoms may intensify in extreme heat. Ultimately it’s up to you to do what feels best for you and your body, and understand and manage possible risks during your pregnancy. 

Can You Use a Sauna During Pregnancy?

There’s no doubt that being pregnant is hard on your body and can leave you with extra aches, pains and discomfort, which could possibly be alleviated by heat. If you’re seeking to soothe and relax your body you may be considering hot baths, or soaking in a hot tub or sauna. The difference between using a sauna or hot tub versus taking a hot bath or shower is that in a sauna or hot tub, your body is constantly exposed to high temperatures and can’t release heat, which causes your core temperature to rise. In a shower or bath, since you’re not fully submerged, your skin is able to release heat continuously, so you aren’t at risk of overheating. 

While the choice is yours to make, it could be considered less risky to opt for a hot shower or bath over a hot tub or sauna while you’re expecting. It’s also important to note that not all saunas are the same- some are kept at different temperatures and heated differently so may therefore feel different. Regardless of the type of sauna and heat you’re exposed to, you should leave a sauna immediately if you start to feel faint or nauseous as this may be a sign that your body is overheating. 

Pregnancies are unique for everyone, so be sure to speak with your doctor if you have questions or concerns before using a sauna, especially if it’s not something you did before pregnancy, and always listen to your body and use your best judgment. Give us a call with questions at 970-879-4390 or contact us here.