Sauna use primarily serves to harden the body against colds. A typical aspect of a sauna session is the alternation between heat and cooling, which stimulates the metabolism and strengthens the immune system. Healthy women experiencing an uncomplicated pregnancy are welcome to continue going to the sauna if they feel the desire to do so. However, if you are not typically a sauna-goer, pregnancy might not necessarily be the ideal time to start trying it out for the first time.
For pregnant women, a trip to the sauna can certainly be beneficial – the water loss from sweating reduces the risk of suffering from unpleasant water retention. Doctors and experts also assume that pregnant sauna-goers experience an easier and more relaxed birth, as regular sauna use makes the muscles looser and softer. In general, visiting the sauna has many advantages, yet sauna use is only suitable for pregnant women who
- already went to the sauna regularly before pregnancy
- are not experiencing a high-risk pregnancy
- and have discussed the sauna in detail with their doctor or midwife beforehand.
Even if sauna use seems appealing to pregnant women, one should approach it with caution. Two sauna visits per week are considered harmless from a medical perspective, provided the time per session does not exceed ten or twelve minutes. Furthermore, lower temperatures should be prioritized: it is recommended to settle for temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees Celsius, as these are better tolerated. Therefore, sit on the lower benches while in the sauna. This has the advantage that you can rush to the exit more quickly if you suddenly feel unwell, and on the other hand, the heat is easier to endure.
How do I prepare for a trip to the sauna?
Before using the sauna, you should prepare for the coming heat with a warm foot bath, as this stimulates circulation, among other things. After the sauna visit, however, the pregnant woman should refrain from cooling off by jumping into cold water, but instead shower off slowly and carefully with cool water. For this, the legs and arms should be showered first, followed by the back and the abdomen.
Towards the end of the Pregnancy you should enjoy sauna visits with caution. Due to the high temperatures and the essential oils in the infusions, labor can potentially be triggered. Also, do not forget to drink before and after the sauna. Expectant mothers have a particularly high fluid requirement, and since the body loses a lot of water in the sauna, this should be replenished with water, unsweetened teas, and juice spritzers.
What should a pregnant woman pay attention to in the sauna?
Do not constantly look at the clock to see if you have spent the right amount of time in the sauna. If you feel unwell, leave the sauna immediately. Whether sauna use is suitable for you should ideally be determined by a doctor. It is better to ask beforehand and get valuable tips to take with you.
A bath at home is just as relaxing as a sauna session. However, make sure that you only use herbal additives that are free of dyes and fragrances, and that the water temperature does not exceed 37° Celsius. Stay in the tub for about 20 minutes – bathing for longer puts a strain on the circulation and also dries out the skin unnecessarily. In any case, treat yourself to at least half an hour of rest after the sauna or bath to recover.
Read also:Â Pregnancy tips: 5. Swimming during pregnancy
