Is hot springs not allowed while pregnant? If you get in properly, the

Some people may have heard that you should not go to a hot spring while pregnant. However, that's not the case, and there are many benefits to taking a hot spring. Let's also check what good things are happening and what to be careful about.

Can I go to a hot spring while pregnant?

In the past, it was considered taboo for pregnant women to go to hot springs and was prohibited by law, but there is no medical basis for them, and it is said that it is now possible to go to hot springs while pregnant.
Of course, you can also soak in the bathtub at home. It's okay to use your favorite bath salts.
There are many things to be careful about when pregnant moms have different bodies than usual, but there are no need to be scared more than necessary. Enjoy your bath life while being considerate of safety.

Are there times when hot springs are bad?

While you are experiencing morning sickness, you may not be able to go to the hot springs due to poor health, but whether or not you are in the early, middle or late stages of the hot springs is fine.
One thing to note is choosing your destination. Pregnant women tend to have a change in their health, so it is safer to refrain from traveling to a place far from their regular hospital so that they can respond immediately if something unusual happens. When you are particularly unstable in your early pregnancy, or when you may suddenly start contractions, it is safe to consult with the hospital and plan a hot spring trip just in case.

What are the benefits of pregnant women in the hot springs?

When it comes to the benefits of hot springs, the most important thing to consider is the relaxing effect. The gentle warming and moderate water pressure will relieve tension between the body and mind, and can be expected to calm your mental state, which tends to become unstable due to changes in hormonal balance.
It also helps to improve blood circulation for pregnant women, who often suffer from reduced exercise and poor blood circulation, and also helps blood flow all the way to the ends, warming their arms and feet, making them easier to fall asleep. Many pregnant women suffer from back pain as their stomachs get heavier, but the warm bath effect can also reduce the pain.

What is the proper bathing method?

Hot water that is too high or too low can lead to an increase in blood pressure and puts a strain on the body. The ideal temperature is around 38 to 41 degrees. Avoid hot baths above 42 degrees or cold cold baths below 30 degrees.
Even if the hot water is at the right temperature, long baths are strictly prohibited. Hot flashes easily during pregnancy, and if a mother's deep body temperature rises, it can affect the baby as well. Please limit the bath time to about 10 minutes, and limit it to twice a day.

Is the sauna OK?

Hot saunas cause blood pressure to rise rapidly, increasing the risk of falls due to lightheadedness, and there is concern that the mother's body temperature will also increase, which can affect the baby. Sweat will encourage you to become dehydrated and the risk of blood clots increases, so you should avoid it while pregnant.
Cold baths after the sauna and open-air baths during cold seasons also have a large temperature difference, and sudden changes in blood pressure can be a burden on your body, so please refrain from doing so.

What preparations do you need before taking a bath?

It is recommended to drink a glass of water before bathing.
During pregnancy, blood is prone to clotting in preparation for childbirth that involves heavy bleeding. If the body loses its water content due to sweating, etc., the blood becomes muddy and the chances of blood clots increase, so it is necessary to replenish water before this happens. It's safe to drink plenty of water while bathing or after bathing.

Is it better to eat after finishing your meal?

Bathing on an empty stomach is not good, but you should avoid it right after eating.
If you take a bath right after a meal, the blood that should be gathered in the stomach will spread throughout the body, causing indigestion and may make you feel sick. Take a bath 30-60 minutes after a meal. On the other hand, when you are hungry, you are prone to lightening, so add a small amount of something that is easy to digest into your stomach before entering.

What should you be careful about while taking a bath?

The most important thing to be aware of in the bathroom or changing room is falling.
Pregnant women are originally prone to cerebral anemia and dizziness, and the risk of lightheadedness increases as their blood pressure changes due to bathing. Also, when your stomach gets bigger and heavier, it becomes difficult to see your feet and your balance is likely to be disrupted. Depending on the quality of the water, the floor can be slippery, so make sure to move slowly while supporting the handrails and walls.

What other things to be aware of?

During pregnancy, you don't know when your condition will change suddenly. If you feel sick or collapse, you may be unable to move on your own. It's safe to take a bath with someone who will support you in the unlikely event. When traveling to a hot spring trip with two couples, you will only be alone when going to a separate public bath for men and women, so you will need to make an effort, such as using a family bath.
It is also important to avoid going out in preparation for sudden changes in physical condition. As a guideline, we recommend choosing a location that takes up to 2 hours each way.
Keep track of the points you need to be careful about, and prepare for the birth of your baby by refreshing your body and mind in the hot springs.