What about spa treatments—hot wax, wraps, mud baths, facials, etc.—during pregnancy?

A day at the spa may help you deal with some of the unpleasant side effects of pregnancy. Some treatments are safe. Some may be more painful than usual. Some are a bad idea while you're pregnant. For example, any spa treatment that raises your body temperature is dangerous during pregnancy. Talk to your health care provider and the spa before making an appointment.

Hair Removal
This includes getting your eyebrows done or your bikini line waxed. These treatments are usually safe during pregnancy.

Remember that your skin may be more sensitive now than before you were pregnant. Hair removal may be more painful than before.

Avoid bleaches and depilatories (hair removal creams) while you're pregnant, because your skin absorbs these products.

Facials, Aloe or Milk Wraps, etc.
Common skin changes during pregnancy include acne, itchiness, rashes and stretch marks. Spa treatments can help, but be careful. During pregnancy, your skin changes a lot. It may be more sensitive to treatments than before. Before you cover your whole body with a product, test it on a small area of skin to be sure it isn't irritating

Body Treatments That Use Heat
Examples are mud baths, hot wax, and seaweed wraps. The heat used in these treatments can raise your body temperature. This can be dangerous for you and your baby. It's best to avoid these treatments while you're pregnant.

Steam Rooms, Hot Tubs and Saunas
These treatments raise your body temperature. They can make you lose bodily fluids (dehydrate) and become overheated. This is dangerous for you and your baby. Avoid steam rooms, saunas, hot tubs, and hot baths while you're pregnant. 

For more information on treatments that can raise body temperature during pregnancy, read Hyperthermia and Pregnancy from the Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS).

January 2007