Can a sauna be used during pregnancy?
The use of saunas during pregnancy is not explicitly forbidden, but it requires a great deal of caution and should always be consulted with the attending physician. A pregnant woman’s body is more sensitive to high temperatures, and reactions to intense heat can be unpredictable. The greatest danger is overheating (hyperthermia), which can have serious consequences for mother and baby, especially in the first trimester.
Potential risks of sauna use during pregnancy
- Overheating of the body: High temperatures can lead to fainting, dizziness and even unconsciousness. Overheating in the first trimester increases the risk of fetal malformations, especially of the nervous system and heart.
- Dehydration: Intense sweating can quickly lead to dehydration, which is dangerous for both mom and baby.
- Sudden uterine contractions: A change in body temperature can trigger contractions that, in the worst cases, can lead to premature labor or miscarriage.
- Circulation problems: Pregnancy puts a strain on the vascular system, and a sauna can further exacerbate these problems, leading to varicose veins or a drop in blood pressure, for example.
Can a sauna during pregnancy have any benefits?
If the pregnancy is going well and the woman was using the sauna regularly before becoming pregnant, the doctor may – in exceptional circumstances – approve very short and mild sessions. Potential benefits include:
- Muscle relaxation and relief from back or neck pain.
- Improving circulation and relieving swelling.
- A moment to relax and unwind.
But even then, strict safety rules must be observed.
You can read more about the health benefits of the sauna here: Is the sauna healthy? Check out the effects of a sauna stay on your health and well-being!
During which trimester of pregnancy is a sauna particularly dangerous?
- First trimester: Doctors unanimously recommend abandoning saunas altogether in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. This is a crucial period of the baby’s development, when overheating can have the most negative effects.
- Second trimester: If the pregnancy is healthy and there are no contraindications, very short and moderate sessions (maximum 5-10 minutes, temperature not higher than 70°C) can be considered, after prior consultation with the doctor.
- Third trimester: During this period, the body is particularly sensitive, and long or hot sessions can trigger premature contractions or accelerate labor.
The most important safety rules in the sauna during pregnancy
- Always consult your doctor before any sauna visit.
- Limit your stay to 5-10 minutes and choose lower temperatures (70°C max).
- Avoid sudden temperature changes – don’t take icy showers after leaving the sauna.
- Take care of hydration – drink water before, during and after the sauna.
- Don’t use the sauna alone – always have someone nearby in case you feel unwell.
- Observe your body – if you feel weak, immediately stop the session and rest.
- Refrain from saunas if your pregnancy is at risk, you have gestational diabetes, hypertension, placental insufficiency or other complications.
We write more about how to behave in the sauna here: Correct sauning – the most important rules of sauna use
Sauna during pregnancy – only with caution
Sauna during pregnancy is a subject that requires individual approach and great caution. In the first trimester, it is best to completely abandon it. In the following ones, if your doctor sees no contraindications and you feel well – you can consider very short, mild sessions, keeping in mind all safety rules. The most important thing is your health and that of your baby. Listen to your body and don’t risk it for a moment of relaxation.
If you want to relax and stay in the sauna is not possible then use our offer: SUPs in the Tri-City. You can both rent a SUP board and join classes at different levels!