Pregnancy Spa Safety

How to choose the safest spa treatments to soothe your pregnancy aches and pains

by: Sydney Loney

othing feels better than a trip to the spa when you're pregnant, but it's important that you know how to indulge safely as a mom-to-be. Some spa treatments are completely safe, while others could be harmful for you and your baby. Here's what you should know before you book your next spa appointment.

Saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and body wraps

When you're pregnant, it's important to avoid anything that could raise your core temperature. If a mother's body temperature goes up significantly, her fetus can get very hot and has no way of losing that heat, says Dr. Marjorie Greenfield. "We know that having a fever is associated with an increased risk of birth defects, especially in the first trimester," she says. "And while we don't know if your core body temperature going up from a fever is the same as when it goes up during a spa treatment, it just makes sense not to risk it."

Aromatherapy and essential oils

It's wise to be wary of aromatherapy and essential oils during pregnancy because not a lot is known about them. Some substances do transfer through the skin and could be harmful for the fetus if they got into your circulation, says Dr. Greenfield. There are some oils, such as lemon and rosewood, that are believed to be safe during pregnancy, but always check with your spa therapist first.
    

Massage and facials

Losing yourself in a massage or facial can be a true pregnancy pick-me-up, but after about four months you should no longer enjoy these treatments while lying flat on your back. "Lying flat on your back could drop your blood pressure and decrease blood flow to the baby," says Dr. Greenfield. Since your new shape also makes lying on your stomach impossible, most spas will simply raise the top of the bed if you're having a facial, while others have special beds, pillows and positions to safely accommodate you during a massage.

Hair coloring

It's best to be more careful in the first trimester and avoid coloring your hair because that's when your baby's organs are forming, says Dr. Greenfield. "After that, use your judgment–if it's really important to your sense of wellbeing, you may decide to color your hair. In theory, highlights are probably a little bit safer than hair dye because the chemicals don't come into as much contact with your scalp."

Manicures and pedicures

When it comes to going for a manicure, it's probably a good idea to skip tips and acrylics because of the chemicals involved. Nail polish is believed to be safe if you want to add color during a mani/pedi but, if you're worried, many spas offer polishes that are toluene, formaldehyde and DBP (dibutyl phthalate) free.

Skin treatments and waxing

It's usually a good idea to avoid glycolic acid and other harsh or abrasive ingredients during facial or body treatments since your skin might be more sensitive than usual. And, if your skin is sensitive, waxing may be more uncomfortable during pregnancy because of increased blood flow. Don't hesitate to talk to your spa therapist and let her know if anything is making you uncomfortable during your treatment.

Meet our expert:

                                                                                                                                          
Marjorie Greenfield, M.D. is a practicing board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG). She is currently associate professor on the full-time faculty at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. Her new book, The Working Woman's Pregnancy Book, hit the bookshelves in May of this year. Dr. Greenfield lives in the Cleveland area with her husband and their teenage son. www.marjoriegreenfield.com
 

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