Sauna happy couple


Since you are expecting a baby, you might be worried about the safety of using a sauna during your pregnancy. Before you decide to try it, make sure you understand the risks involved or consult your doctor. Please always seek the opinion of a health professional. 


Despite the number of experts who agree or disagree with the topic, there is no clear answer to the question of whether to use a sauna while pregnant.


The different types of sauna will generate heat that you will find relaxing, especially during pregnancy. However, while relaxing, note that there are also risks, especially if you overdo it.


So what are the health risks? What are the alternatives? Keep on reading, and let's talk more about sauna and pregnancy.


Saunas and pregnancy through time

Early cultures embraced the concept of heat therapy. One of the earliest traditions to adopt this concept was the Finnish. During this time, women used to give birth in saunas.


Sitting in a sauna can raise a person's temperature, but not dangerously high, according to a review of 12 studies.


According to the study, it is safe to use a dry sauna during pregnancy. The study also noted that the risk of developing heat stress is low.


Sauna Pregnancy Risks You Should Know

While it is safe to use sauna and infrared saunas, they are not free of risks during pregnancy. Especially if you are in a bad state of health, it would be best to avoid the sauna and wait until you have given birth.


Sauna and pregnancy may not be a good combination because of the heat. This will elevate your body temperature, which handles the risks it can bring during pregnancy.


Among others, maternal hypothermia is one of the most severe risks of using the sauna during pregnancy. It refers to having an abnormally high body temperature. If your temperature goes above 100.94 degrees Fahrenheit during Pregnancy, this can already be a cause of concern. 


If your doctor allows you to use a sauna, limit the amount of time you spend inside to 15 minutes. Doing so can help you maintain a healthy pregnancy, but beware not to overdo it since it can also cause complications.


If you start to feel faint or nauseous in the sauna, it's important to leave immediately. This is because these symptoms suggest that your body is overheating.


Other Alternatives

Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic medicine, are different from standard medical care. 


Some women use alternative therapies to reduce nausea and vomiting during pregnancy or just to be more relaxed and stress-free. Happy mommy, happy baby!


Here are some other great alternatives you can do while pregnant:


Meditation


Deep relaxation techniques like meditation can help you manage various physical and emotional stresses during pregnancy. These techniques can help you reduce stress, improve concentration, and lower blood pressure.


Hydrotherapy



Hydrotherapy is the use of warm (not boiling) water to reduce your discomfort from pregnancy side effects. If you choose to don't use a sauna when pregnant, a warm bath is a perfect swap. Some doctors recommend that the water temperature stay below 95°F and stay in the water no longer than 10 minutes. 



Aromatherapy

Not only are essential oils safe to use during pregnancy, but they can also be inhaled or diffused into a solution. This method works for treating various conditions, such as nausea, headaches, and muscle aches.


However, remember to speak to your doctor before using a sauna or alternative therapies while pregnant. 



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