Soaking in Hot Springs While Pregnant

Many pregnant women come to enjoy the restorative and revitalizing effects of our hot springs oasis. When it comes to pregnancy, safety is our primary concern.

So is it safe to soak while pregnant?

First and foremost, you need to listen to your body and be aware of any risk factors related to your particular pregnancy. If you have any concerns or are at risk, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare team before trying any activities outside of your usual routine. The information provided here is not medical advice and should not replace the recommendations of your doctor. This is intended to provide science-backed context to help you make an informed decision for you and your baby.

Insights from Dr. Coplin: Pregnancy is a natural process. Unless there are known risk factors or complications, it doesn’t need to be approached from a place of fear. The body has many safeguards in place, activating various metabolic and circulatory pathways to ensure the baby’s health throughout the pregnancy. Mothers-to-be can shift their focus from long-term health goals to preparing for the birthing process. This can include considerations for metabolic health, nutrition, circulatory support, and, of course, comfort.

Taking baths or soaking in a hot spring can have very beneficial effects on both the mother and baby. However, it’s essential to consider some key factors. The risks associated with bathing, exercise, or sauna use primarily stem from raising the body’s core temperature to a level that could potentially harm the baby’s development.

A comprehensive study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that the threshold for health risks to the baby is when core body temperature exceeds 39°C (102.2°F). The study examined hot water bathing, sauna use, and exercise, creating guidelines for these activities that can be followed safely without putting the baby at risk.

According to the study’s findings, pregnant women can safely:

Exercise at a moderate to hard pace for 35 minutes on land or 45 minutes in water

Sit in a hot bath at 104°F (40°C) or below for 20 minutes

Sit in a 160°F (71°C) sauna for 20 minutes

There are several reasons why a pregnant woman may choose to engage in these activities, including benefits to physical and mental health, metabolic health, and relief from aches and pains. Considering that the thermal effects of bathing at 104°F or below for 20 minutes or less are safe, let’s explore some additional benefits:

Floating in Water: The antigravity effect of floating can decrease muscle tension, joint pain, and general discomfort.

Gentle Pressure: The natural pressure of water on the body helps with fluid retention and can reduce swelling in the legs.

Mineral Benefits: Our mineral-rich water can enhance pain relief, reduce inflammation, and support healthy metabolism and immune function.

For pregnant women who wish to relax at our resort but are hesitant to immerse themselves in water, we recommend visiting our Kneipp Hall. This area of our bathhouse features a gentle reflexology path paired with a traditional Kneipp Walk.

The reflexology path uses ankle-deep hot water to relax the muscles of the feet and, by extension, the entire nervous system. From there, you’ll transition into a knee-deep traditional Kneipp walk, where the combination of cold water and the pressure on your calves creates a gentle pumping action that supports circulation to the abdomen. Completing 3-5 circuits is a great way to encourage circulation while easing aches, pains, and edema.

Pregnancy is an individual journey, and we firmly believe in the intuition of every mother-to-be. Listen to your body, integrate the information you’ve learned, and remember: don’t overdo it. If you’re feeling tired, take a rest. If you’re feeling too hot, cool down. Above all, remember that our geothermal offerings are designed to bring your body into a state of increased relaxation, not stress, as you prepare for the beautiful process of birth.