Safety Tips for Giving Mom the Spa Treatment
By: Karen Sullen
Ask just about any pregnant woman and she will extol the amazing, surprising and often uncomfortable changes her body goes through while preparing for the arrival of her little one. Whether she is carrying twins or just one, she'll also tell you that a little pampering here and there is a great way to help her endure. It's no wonder that "pregnancy spas" are popping up all over. With a baby-centric focus on Mom, these skilled technicians help Mom reach nirvana, at least for the time that she's there. But while these pregnancy spas may be in demand, they are a rare find at best. As a result, many women treat themselves to a little much-deserved pampering at their regular spa without realizing that they are no longer a "regular" client, as there are some specific concerns that an expecting Mom would have that others would not. According to Pregnancy Magazine, here are five tips to help make sure your trip to the spa is a safe one for you and your baby:
1) Don't get overheated
Stay away from hot saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and body wraps. Maternal temperature above 102 degrees can affect the brain development of the fetus.
2) Use the slightest touch
Make sure your massage therapist or beauty technician is trained in prenatal care and uses pressure that is lighter than usual, especially around the abdominal area.
3) Don't lie flat
Never lie flat on your back after the 18th week of pregnancy. Any good massage therapist will know that you should be on your left side, propped up with a pillow or beanbag, with another pillow or rolled up towel between your legs. A chair massage will also do the trick.
4) Keep the fumes to a minimum
Call before you go to make sure your manicurist uses baby-safe, low-fume products and that the area is well ventilated. If you've ever walked into a poorly ventilated nail salon, you know the fumes can seem almost toxic.
5) Be careful of sensitive skin
For facials, avoid skin peels that contain glycolic acid or any other harsh chemical you may have a reaction to. Your skin is likely to be extra sensitive while pregnant and might be bothered by things you might otherwise not be.
Keeping these five tips in mind will help protect you and your baby during your next trip to the spa. After you're done with the spa therapy, feel free to indulge in a little "retail" therapy and get your shop on! Now that you're relaxed and feeling good, it’s a great time to go shopping for baby clothes.
By: Karen Sullen
Ask just about any pregnant woman and she will extol the amazing, surprising and often uncomfortable changes her body goes through while preparing for the arrival of her little one. Whether she is carrying twins or just one, she'll also tell you that a little pampering here and there is a great way to help her endure. It's no wonder that "pregnancy spas" are popping up all over. With a baby-centric focus on Mom, these skilled technicians help Mom reach nirvana, at least for the time that she's there. But while these pregnancy spas may be in demand, they are a rare find at best. As a result, many women treat themselves to a little much-deserved pampering at their regular spa without realizing that they are no longer a "regular" client, as there are some specific concerns that an expecting Mom would have that others would not. According to Pregnancy Magazine, here are five tips to help make sure your trip to the spa is a safe one for you and your baby:
1) Don't get overheated
Stay away from hot saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and body wraps. Maternal temperature above 102 degrees can affect the brain development of the fetus.
2) Use the slightest touch
Make sure your massage therapist or beauty technician is trained in prenatal care and uses pressure that is lighter than usual, especially around the abdominal area.
3) Don't lie flat
Never lie flat on your back after the 18th week of pregnancy. Any good massage therapist will know that you should be on your left side, propped up with a pillow or beanbag, with another pillow or rolled up towel between your legs. A chair massage will also do the trick.
4) Keep the fumes to a minimum
Call before you go to make sure your manicurist uses baby-safe, low-fume products and that the area is well ventilated. If you've ever walked into a poorly ventilated nail salon, you know the fumes can seem almost toxic.
5) Be careful of sensitive skin
For facials, avoid skin peels that contain glycolic acid or any other harsh chemical you may have a reaction to. Your skin is likely to be extra sensitive while pregnant and might be bothered by things you might otherwise not be.
Keeping these five tips in mind will help protect you and your baby during your next trip to the spa. After you're done with the spa therapy, feel free to indulge in a little "retail" therapy and get your shop on! Now that you're relaxed and feeling good, it’s a great time to go shopping for baby clothes.