There can be no better time to indulge in some soothing spa treatments than when you are pregnant. Pregnant women cannot enjoy all spa treatments however, and this is our guide to the do's and don'ts when it comes to spa treatments and pregnancy.
Spa Treatments During Pregnancy
The demand for spa treatments for expectant mothers has been increasing in recent years and there are more and more spas offering them. With over 600 000 women falling pregnant every day, this is no longer a niche market. Yet some mothers-to-be are still very weary of having spa treatments. Some of their concerns are valid, but there are a number of spa treatments that can be enjoyed during pregnancy.
Spa treatments can be very relaxing, and this is one of the times in your life that you deserve some pampering. There are certain periods during your pregnancy when it is safer for you to enjoy spa treatments. There are some therapies that should be avoided during your first trimester. Quite a few spas are also cautious about the treatments they administer during your third trimester.
This article will hopefully serve as a rough guide to help you make an informed choice. Many spas now do offer maternity treatments, which are designed with your safety, effectiveness and comfort in mind. Your second trimester is the best time to enjoy spa treatments as this is when the least damage can be done to your child. Some pregnancy treatments are only recommended after 12 weeks.
Always use a reputable spa and ask for a therapist that has experience in dealing with pregnant patients. Those spas that offer several mother-to-be treatments normally have someone experienced administering them. It is best that you consult with your doctor and a spa therapist who specialises in treating mothers-to-be before enjoying spa treatments.
Some Basic Guidelines About Spa Treatments During Pregnancy
Massages can be very beneficial for expectant mothers as they help you relax and soothe aching muscles and joints. Full body massages however are not recommended, and neither are massages that require you to be flat on your back as this is not good for the baby.
Avoid heating treatments such as the sauna, steam room, whirlpool and any hydrotherapy treatments that will raise or lower your core body temperature. Your unborn child may get too hot and will not be able to regulate their temperature. However Laconiums and Tepidariums are fine as they use a more gentle heat to soothe.
Aromatherapy - many expectant mothers are weary of essential oils. This is wise advice as certain essential oils can pass through the skin and be absorbed into your bloodstream. This in turn may have an effect on your baby's development.
However, citrus oils are considered to be safe for use during pregnancy. The best thing to do is speak to your qualified therapist who will advise you on aromatherapy treatments.
Facials are generally alright, but you should be aware that during pregnancy your skin could become sensitive and even products that you used before may cause irritation. You should ask your therapist what the best products to use might be.
Manicures and pedicures - you can enjoy these during pregnancy, but you need to be aware of what products are being used. Do they contain anything that might harm your unborn child? One of the main things that pregnant women should avoid is nail polish and polish remover, which contains formaldehyde and toluene which can harm your baby's development.
Do not go for spa treatments if you have a high risk pregnancy, suffer from deep vein thrombosis or have abnormal water retention and oedema, pre-eclampsia or eclampsia. All spa treatments should be taken under the guidance of your doctor.
The Benefits of Spa Treatments During Pregnancy
There are many benefits of spa treatments during pregnancy. One of which is reducing stress and anxiety, which is beneficial for the development of your baby and will mean there is a lower chance of complications. Massages soothe aching muscles and increase blood circulation which means that your baby will get more nutrients and there is an increase of oxygen flow to the baby. It also helps reduce water retention.
They also help improve skin tone and skin elasticity during your pregnancy. The massages reduce the pain associated with weight gain and hormonal changes. There is some evidence that they reduce the risk of complications during your pregnancy and also lower the incidence of postpartum depression. A more immediate benefit is that it improves your mood and promotes better sleep.
The Benefits of Postpartum Massage
Continuing spa treatments after birth is also good for you. To maintain and help get back skin tone it is recommended that you continue spa treatments up until 3 months after you have given birth. The spa treatments also help you adjust to your new life by giving you a break. The treatments promote the structural realignment of your spine and pelvis and help reorganise the way your body moves.
A Couple of Ideas
Here are a few ideas. Why don't you arrange to hold a pregnancy party or baby shower at the spa? Treat yourself and your friends to some relaxing treatments. Another great idea is to get your partner involved and enjoy a couple's massage under the guidance of a therapist who is experienced in spa treatments during pregnancy.
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