Can you go to the spa when pregnant? Spa treatments you can (and can't) enjoy.
Pregnancy is an exciting time for mums-to-be, but it can also be exhausting. Carrying a baby takes a toll on the body, so it's essential to get the rest you need. And what better way to unwind than with a spa day?
The QHotels Collection offers a variety of pregnancy-friendly spa treatments. Treat yourself to the relaxation you deserve and book a spa break today!
We're also sharing everything you need to know about safe spa treatments during pregnancy—read the blog below to learn more.
Can I go to the spa?
Yes, pregnant women can visit spas, but you need to pick treatments carefully. The products used may affect aspects of the pregnancy, especially during certain trimesters.
If you’re experiencing a lot of sickness during your first trimester, you might not have enough energy to visit a spa, but you might feel better during the second trimester. Even then, there are certain treatments you need to avoid for your health and the baby’s. We’ll cover these, the treatments you can still enjoy, and anything else you should consider on your next spa day.
What products do you use?
Find out exactly what products are used during the spa treatment to make sure there’s nothing harmful involved. Some essential oils for example, can bring on contractions, so always ask for more detail and alternatives.
How long will the treatment take?
In normal circumstances, you might love a long spa treatment but it’s a different story when you’re pregnant. Laying down in a fixed position might end up being uncomfortable. You might need to take toilet breaks, which is why it’s better to ask about timings before you step in the treatment room.
Is the therapist qualified for pregnancy massages?
Contact the spa and ask if the staff are qualified to give pregnancy massages. If they say yes, you can rest knowing that you’ll be in the hands of experts.
If it’s a no, you might want to visit a spa from The QHotels Collection instead. If you’re unsure about how any of our treatments might impact your pregnancy, just let us know. The spa team pride themselves on giving everyone a relaxing experience and we’d love to help out.
Your Guide to Spa Treatments During Pregnancy
We all love a good massage, but when you’re carrying a baby you should avoid Swedish, sports and other kinds, and choose a specialist pregnancy massage instead.
Certain areas of the body – tummy, lower back, and the back of the ankles – should not be massaged early and late on in the pregnancy, particularly up to the end of the first trimester and from week 30 onwards.
If you’re in desperate need of a massage to help boost your mood and ease tension, you can find pregnancy massages that use ‘body pillows’. A gap in the pillows allows pregnant women to face down on the massage bed, safely. During the treatments, properly trained therapists will use organic oils and creams designed not to trigger nausea.
Be mindful of massages where you need to lie completely flat on your back as this can be harmful to the baby.
We know it sounds daunting but don’t worry, there are plenty of spas that cater for pregnant women. For example, at The QHotels Collection you can opt for a safe and gentle 50-minute ELEMIS Peaceful Pregnancy massage.
Keen to get that pregnancy glow? You’ll be happy to know facials are safe during pregnancy.
You should make sure your facialist avoids any hard skin peels or microdermabrasion as your skin is extra sensitive during pregnancy. Products containing retinoids are problematic too. The chemical compounds are made from vitamin A and are a type of teratogen, an agent or factor which causes abnormalities in embryos.
Sadly, saunas, steam room, hot tubs and jacuzzies are a no-go zone during all stages of pregnancy. This is because there’s a risk of overheating or dehydration during a time when your internal body temperature is higher than usual anyway.
You can, however, enjoy a dip in the pool, just make sure you’re careful when getting in and out and watch out for slippery surfaces.
As mentioned, your skin is extra sensitive during pregnancy so a body scrub can be uncomfortable. You can still book one in, but it might not be as relaxing as you hoped.
Some body wraps and scrubs include the use of active ingredients like lavender, which should be avoided as it can supposedly bring on labour.
So, if you want to get a body wrap or scrub, it’s fine if the products used are suitable for pregnant women (just make sure to ask before booking).
Gel nails and acrylics involve strong chemicals and UV lights. The fumes and UV exposure from these treatments, might not be ideal during pregnancy. They can not only make you feel sick but can be harmful to the baby too.
Instead, you can opt for a standard manicure that uses non-toxic polishes.
We’re not saying spa treatments are a no-go zone during pregnancy. You’ll find plenty of spots that cater to pregnant women, places where you can unwind without feeling like you missed out on the spa experience.
At The QHotels Collection, we have a wide range of pregnancy-friendly spa treatments. Why not give your body the pampering it deserves and book a spa break today?
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