A relaxing bath soak can be a wonderful way to relieve stress and soothe tired muscles, especially after a long, taxing day. However, if you're pregnant, you might have heard that taking baths is not advisable.
This raises the question: can you still enjoy a soothing bath while you're pregnant?
The Truth About Bathing During Pregnancy
Pregnancy doesn’t mean you have to give up soothing soaks—a common misconception. Baths are generally safe during pregnancy, but it's important to take proper precautions.
Above All Else, Consult Your Doctor
The single most important thing you can do is consult with your doctor about taking baths during and after your pregnancy. Full disclaimer: we are not giving medical advice here—that's up to your doctor.
Every pregnancy is unique, so make sure to discuss your specific situation with your doctor. With that in mind, here are some general guidelines you may find helpful:
If You’re Pregnant, Skip Hot Baths
For your safety, it's best to avoid using hot water when bathing. Ensure your bath water is fairly warm or moderately warm.
Hot baths can lead to hyperthermia or an increased body temperature, causing dizziness or even fainting. For pregnant women, immersing in hot water can reduce blood flow, potentially causing complications.
Use warm water instead, and avoid staying in the tub for too long.
What To Do
The answer is simple: ensure the water temperature is not too high. Some people use thermometers, but if you don't have one, you can dip your elbow in to check if the bathwater is too hot.
There are also other ways to enjoy a luxurious soak. For example, lighting a scented candle can create a calming atmosphere. Choose your favorite scent and let it fill the room.
Using epsom salt can also enhance relaxation. Our Deep Relaxation Bath Soak at Better Bath Better Body is perfect for unwinding, relaxation, and stress relief.
Epsom Salt
Despite its name, epsom salt differs significantly from table salt. While they may share a similar structure and appearance, their chemical composition sets them apart: epsom salt contains magnesium and sulfate instead of sodium chloride.
One of the most popular ways to benefit from epsom salt is by adding it to a bath.
A soak in the tub or a sitz bath can effectively soothe your muscles and help alleviate stress, especially when using our Sitz Bath Soak. Infused with a blend of essential oils including frankincense, geranium, lavender, and niaouli, it offers effective aromatherapy benefits. This versatile soak is equally suitable for regular baths.
Using epsom salt is simple. Just add 1-2 tablespoons of salts per gallon of comfortably warm water. Soaking for around 10 minutes can be a safe and enjoyable bath experience for pregnant women.
Benefits For Pregnant Women
Adding epsom salt to your bathwater offers numerous benefits, whether you're pregnant or not. Here are some advantages of enjoying a good epsom salt bath:
- Soothes Muscles
Pregnancy often leads to persistent sore muscles, accompanied by frequent bouts of back pain and leg cramps. Epsom salt offers soothing relief, making it a valuable aid in feeling better.
- Reduces Stress
Epsom salt is known for its magnesium content, which is believed to aid in stress relief. If you're looking to unwind, a targeted soak designed for stress could be your ideal choice.
Consider our Stress Relief Bath Soak infused with pure eucalyptus and spearmint essential oils as a prime example.
De-Stress During Pregnancy With A Relaxing Bath Soak
Taking a relaxing bath can be a great way to manage stress, even during pregnancy. It's safe to enjoy a bath as long as you're mindful of the water temperature and take precautions to avoid slipping or falling when getting in or out of the tub.
To ensure the safety of both you and your baby, it's important to consult your doctor before trying anything and learn what to avoid and take necessary precautions. Enhance your bath experience by adding scented candles and epsom salt to your bathwater for a touch of luxury.
Order our epsom bath soaks here.
