Bathtub: Not too hot and not too long
When it comes to bathing during pregnancy, many women think of a warm bubble bath in the tub, perhaps with candles and their personal favorite music. In fact, bathing in the tub relaxes body, soul and spirit. The soothing “let-self-hang-out” makes you forget everyday life, the warmth loosens the muscles, the back and joints are relieved, and even the baby feels the warmth.
The temperature of the bath water should ideally be around 33 to 34 degrees. Higher temperatures from 37 to 38 degrees are unsuitable, because then the vessels dilate, which causes the blood pressure to drop. This could cause circulatory problems. For example, some pregnant women become dizzy, which increases the risk of accidents, for example when getting out of the tub. In addition, existing varicose veins may worsen. In addition, if the core body temperature rises above 38.5 degrees for a prolonged period as a result of bath water that is too warm, the risk of premature labor increases; the rate of premature birth and malformation also increases.
- Always put a glass of water within reach and drink plenty, because the heat causes your body to lose fluid.
- Also make sure that you are never alone when bathing during pregnancy, in case you need unexpected help.
- If you have dry skin, you can add replenishing additives to the bath water. However, it is better to stay away from essential oils in bath oils, because some substances such as camphor, cinnamon or cloves can trigger premature labor – talk to your doctor or midwife if you are not sure.
Hot tub
When bathing during pregnancy, avoid hot tubs: Thanks to the warmer water in them, they can be teeming with bacteria and fungus – especially if the water isn’t renewed very often. Since the altered hormone balance during pregnancy reduces the acid level in the vagina, the local immune defense is weakened. This makes you more susceptible to infections. So if you don’t want to get a vaginal fungal infection when bathing during pregnancy, it’s better to avoid water that’s too warm.
Swimming in the pool
Swimming in lakes and rivers
If you prefer to swim in natural waters, you should check with your municipality beforehand about the quality of the water. The water in most lakes and rivers today is not polluted. However, it is still advisable to ask if you do not want to run any risks during pregnancy from water that may be contaminated with germs.
Bathing during pregnancy: playing it safe
If you follow a few rules and neither overexert yourself nor overheat, bathing during pregnancy will not cause any problems and will be good for you and your child. However, always ask your doctor first if you are not sure or if any problems arise during your pregnancy.
