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Spa Secrets for Moms-to-Be
April 17th, 2012
Expecting moms deserve a treat, but not all spa treatments are safe during pregnancy. Here's how to have a blissful–and safe–spa experience while pregnant. 
by: Sydney Loney
In This Article
Pregnancy Spa Safety
    

  • Avoid saunas and wraps that could raise your core body temperature and put your fetus at risk. 
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  • Lemon and rosewood are two essential oils that are safe to use during pregnancy.
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  • Make sure you aren't lying flat on your back for any spa treatment after your pregnancy reaches the four-month mark.
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  • If you're worried about exposing yourself to unnecessary chemicals, many spas offer nail polishes that are toluene, formaldehyde and DBP (dibutyl phthalate) free.
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A
 trip to the spa is blissful at anytime, but when you're pregnant you need to pamper safely. Some spa treatments could be harmful for you and your baby. Here's what you should know before you book your next spa appointment so you can relax and safely enjoy.


Don't Over Heat


When you're pregnant, it's important to avoid anything that could raise your core temperature. Saunas, hot tubs, steams, body wraps and hot yoga classes are off limits. 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."


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Be wary of Essential Oils >>