Can you Have a Spa Day when Pregnant?

For many pregnant women, a spa day might feel like a dream come true. Pregnancy is likely to make you feel drained, or even exhausted, especially in the first 12 weeks. The hormonal changes at this time can make you feel tired, nauseous and stressed. 

A spa day can be perfect for relaxing, self-care and taking time for yourself.

But can you go to a spa if you’re pregnant? In short, the answer is yes! However it’s important to keep your pregnancy in mind when going to a spa, by avoiding the heat facilities and excessive movement.

While keeping that in mind, book the spa day and go and have some fun!

Body Massage

Massages are a great way to destress, decompress and help get a good nights sleep, while easing any back or neck pains. They are, in fact, safe to have during pregnancy, as long as the following precautions are met:

• Deep tissue massage in the abdomen, lower back and back of the ankles should be avoided
• Make sure that the oils used during the massage are safe to be used during pregnancy 
• Make sure you wipe any oils from the feet to avoid slipping

There are a number of oils that are best avoided during any pregnancy massage including Basil, Vetiver, Peppermint, Cedarwood, Cinnamon bark, Juniper, Sage and others. It’s always worth double-checking what’s being used during your consultation.

Similarly, there are many oils considered to be completely safe during pregnancy including Lavender, Grapefruit, Sandalwood, Bergamot, Lemon, Yang yang and more.

Some women also prefer to use fragrance-free oils.

What Spa Treatments are Safe during Pregnancy?

The below spa treatments are usually considered safe but ensure you speak to someone before, as individual circumstances may differ:

• Head massage
• Hydrotherapy pool sessions (with the temperature at or below 350C)
• Foot soaks 
• Body firming treatments

What Treatments should be Avoided at a Spa during Pregnancy?

• Any heated treatments
• Hot stones 
• Tanning beds
• Whirlpools
• Underwater or over water massage jets in swimming pools

Spa Safety Tips for Pregnant Women

First and foremost, if this is your first time using a spa when pregnant then you may want to inform the spa that you are pregnant before attending or receiving any treatment. Having an initial assessment with a spa practitioner to discuss and explain different safe and suitable treatment options and frequency of visits will help keep ensure you’re safe, relaxed and comfortable.

Again, when discussing your spa treatments both you and practitioner will take into account how you position yourself for the most comfort and relaxation possible.

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It can be very frustrating having to avoid activities that you love when you’re pregnant but at least you know a trip to the spa doesn’t need to be avoided.

As long as you follow the relevant safety precautions and discuss your treatments beforehand, then there is no need to avoid the spa. In fact, it may help ease some of your pregnancy symptoms, help with aches and pains and reduce stress.

If you’re still concerned, we recommend that you talk to your doctor or midwife if you have any questions or worries about attending a spa during pregnancy.

If you can’t wait to book, you can view our packages here and our full range of services here.