Spabreaks.com Pregnancy Spa Guide

Yes, you can have massages during pregnancy, and it can be an extremely restorative and relaxing experience. However, massage is usually not recommended until after your first trimester. Even after the first three months of pregnancy, there are certain adaptations that need to be considered for your maximum comfort and benefit. For this reason it’s recommended that you opt for a dedicated pregnancy or prenatal massage, and make sure your therapist is aware that you are pregnant before your treatment.

It's generally not recommended that you use saunas during pregnancy. Saunas can be very relaxing at other times, but for pregnant women a sauna can increase the chances of dehydration and dizziness, and the raised temperature is considered potentially hazardous. When you are pregnant, other options such as cooler pools are recommended instead.

Steam rooms are not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. The NHS says: "You may choose to avoid them because of the risks of overheating, dehydration and fainting" when you are pregnant. If you have questions about using a steam room when pregnant it's best to speak to your doctor first.

A rule of thumb for pregnant women is to avoid high temperatures because your internal body temperature at that time is higher than usual and it’s not known to be entirely safe. Therefore, it’s not recommended you spend time in saunas, steam rooms, Jacuzzis or hot tubs.

It is generally considered ok to have a facial during pregnancy even in your first trimester, depending on the specifics of the treatment. The best option is to have a dedicated prenatal facial as there are certain products and treatments that are best avoided until after you’ve had your baby. Equally, as skin changes during pregnancy, dedicated prenatal therapies can work to address any concerns that you may have, helping make you feel your best and also ensure you feel cared for. With so many dedicated options available, there’s plenty to choose from.

You can go on a spa day at any time during your pregnancy. However, it is recommended that you avoid certain facilities (specifically very hot facilities), and many spas will advise you not to have treatments during this time. It is recommended that you check with your doctor before booking.

The second trimester is often the most comfortable time during pregnancy to book a spa day and more options are open to you in terms of treatments. You’re also likely to have more energy and less pregnancy-related discomfort. However it’s still recommended that you avoid high temperature facilities and it’s important to take care not to slip in wet areas. It is always recommended that you check with your doctor before booking.

Yes, though it’s important to check with your therapist which treatments are recommended during pregnancy, avoid hot facilities, and take care not to slip in wet areas. It is always recommended that you check with your doctor before booking.

If you normally wax, it’s fine to keep doing so during pregnancy. The only thing to be aware of is that skin can be more sensitive than usual.

Standard manicures and pedicures are generally considered safe during all phases of pregnancy. Some luxury manicures and pedicures may involve elements of reflexology or massage, so it’s still best to advise your therapist that you are pregnant before your treatment so that they can avoid any sensitive pressure points. The other thing to be aware of is that sometimes the fumes from nail polishes and products can make women feel nauseous during pregnancy, so be mindful and tell your therapist if you feel unwell. Different people have different approaches, but the NCT advises that gel and acrylic nails are best avoided during pregnancy.