Is hot springs a no-no during pregnancy? There are benefits if you get

Some of you may have heard that you should not take hot springs while pregnant. However, this is actually not the case, and there are many benefits that come from bathing in a hot spring. Let's take a look at the good things that come with it and the things you should be careful about.

Can I take a hot spring bath while pregnant?

In the past, it was considered taboo for pregnant women to take a hot spring bath, and there was a time when it was even prohibited by law, but there is no medical basis for this, and it is now considered safe to take a hot spring bath while pregnant.
Of course, you can also soak in your own bathtub at home. You can also use your favorite bath salts.
A pregnant mother's body is different from normal in many ways, so there are some things to be aware of, but there's no need to be unnecessarily scared. Enjoy your bath life while being careful about safety.

Are there times when hot springs are not good?

While you are suffering from morning sickness, you may not be able to take a hot spring because you are not feeling well, but whether you are in the early, middle, or late stages of morning sickness, there is no problem in taking a hot spring.
One thing you need to be careful about is choosing your travel destination. Pregnant women are prone to changes in their physical condition, so it is a good idea to refrain from traveling to places far from your primary care hospital so that you can take immediate action if any changes occur. If you are in the early stages of pregnancy, when your physical condition is especially unstable, or if you are nearing the end of your pregnancy, when labor may start suddenly, it is best to consult with a hospital before planning a hot spring trip.

What are the benefits of taking a hot spring for pregnant women?

When it comes to the benefits of hot springs, the first thing that comes to mind is the relaxing effect. The gentle warmth and moderate water pressure will relieve your mental and physical tension, and you can also expect to calm down your mental state, which tends to be unstable due to changes in hormonal balance.
It also helps improve blood circulation for pregnant women, who often have poor blood circulation due to a decrease in physical activity, and it also helps to circulate blood to the extremities, warming the limbs and helping you sleep better. Many pregnant women suffer from lower back pain as their stomachs become heavier, but the effects of a warm bath may reduce the pain.

What is the proper way to bathe?

Hot water that is too hot or too cold can increase blood pressure and put stress on your body. The optimum temperature is around 38 to 41 degrees. Avoid hot baths above 42 degrees and cold baths below 30 degrees.
Even if the water is at an appropriate temperature, long baths are strictly prohibited. During pregnancy, it is easy to get hot flashes, and when the mother's core body temperature rises, it can also affect the baby. Please limit your bathing time to no more than 10 minutes each time, and no more than twice a day.

Is sauna OK?

A hot sauna can cause a sudden rise in blood pressure, increasing the risk of falling due to lightheadedness, and there is also concern that the mother's body temperature will rise, which could have an effect on the baby. It should be avoided during pregnancy, as it can stimulate sweating, dehydration, and increase the risk of blood clots.
Avoid taking a cold bath after a sauna or an open-air bath in cold weather, as the temperature difference is large and rapid changes in blood pressure can put a strain on your body.

What preparations do you need before taking a bath?

It is recommended to drink a glass of water before bathing.
During pregnancy, your blood tends to clot in preparation for childbirth, which involves a lot of bleeding. When the amount of water in your body decreases due to sweating, the blood becomes thick and the possibility of blood clots increases, so you need to replenish your fluids before this happens. It is safe to drink water frequently during and after bathing.

Is it better to wait until you have finished eating?

Bathing on an empty stomach is not a good idea, but you should also avoid it right after a meal.
If you take a bath right after eating, the blood that should be collected in your stomach will be spread throughout your body, which can lead to indigestion and make you feel sick. Wait 30 to 60 minutes after eating before taking a bath. On the other hand, it's easy to feel dizzy when you stand up on an empty stomach, so put a small amount of something easily digestible in your stomach before you start.

What should you be careful about while bathing?

The most important thing to be careful about in bathrooms and changing rooms is falling.
Pregnant women are naturally prone to cerebral anemia and dizziness, and their blood pressure fluctuates when they take a bath, increasing the risk of dizziness on standing up. Also, if your stomach gets big and heavy, it will be difficult to see your feet and you will lose your balance. Depending on the quality of the spring water, the floor may be slippery, so be sure to move slowly and use handrails or walls for support.

What else should I be careful about?

During pregnancy, you never know when your physical condition will suddenly change. If you become unwell or collapse, you may be unable to move by yourself. It is safer to take a bath with someone who can support you in case of emergency. When traveling to hot springs as a couple, you will be alone when going to the large public baths for men and women, so you need to be creative, such as using family baths.
It is also important to avoid traveling far in case of sudden changes in your physical condition. As a guideline, we recommend choosing a location that takes up to 2 hours one way.
Be sure to take precautions and prepare for the birth of your baby while refreshing your mind and body at the hot springs.