Q&A: Are baths safe for pregnant women?

Not only are baths safe for pregnant women, they are fabulous! Here are some facts:

• While hot tubs and saunas are not a good idea in pregnancy, a regular warm (not steaming) bath is fine. The concern is about raising your body temperature; the difference between a hot tub and a bath is that the water is continuously heated in a hot tub. So baths cool off as you soak, and your body temperature doesn't go up appreciably. Of course if you start to feel overheated, it is time to get out.
• Soaking your bottom can sooth hemorrhoids or other external irritations.
• Later in pregnancy, swollen feet can be alleviated with a cool soak. Going swimming works best, but a cool-ish bath may also help quite a bit.
• Soaking in warm water is relaxing, and you deserve it!

So unless your doctor or midwife tells you otherwise, go ahead and take a deep soothing bath whenever you want to! It is a healthful way to relax and rejuvenate.