Spa Treatments during Pregnancy

Pros and Cons for Spa Treatments When You're Pregnant
Going to the Spa can be a treat for everyone, but we feel you need to heed precautions if you are pregnant. Also, using products to protect you may cause harm to your unborn child. Always check the labels of products before using them and check with your therapist before receiving treatments. The following are guidelines to help you sort through the maze of information regarding your pregnancy.
Some essential oils are also not advised to be used during pregnancy, particularly in the first three months. These include oils such as cedarwood, camomile, eucalyptus, clary sage, juniper, rosemary and frankincense. They’re often used in aromatherapy massages or facials. Due to factors such as these, it’s important to ensure you go to a spa that specializes in special treatments for pregnancy.

Sunscreen: A must, especially in Southern California! Melasma, which can afflict pregnant women in the form of brown spots or an overall darkening of the face, is discoloration that may last a lifetime. And it's made much worse by the effects of sunlight on a body that's swimming with pregnancy hormones. Look for one that contains UVA/UVB block.

Alpha Hydroxy acids including glycolic peeling agents: Fine.

Self tanners: Fine.

Acne medication: Never Accutane, which is linked to serious birth defects, some doctors recommend staying away from benzoyl peroxide, but salicylic acids are fine, as is microdermabrasion. Retin A? Not a good idea, given the toxicity of oral vitamin A.

Saunas, steam rooms and heated body wraps: Definite No-No's.

Massage: Massage can really help ready the body for labor. The precautions though are: The abdomen, if it's massaged at all should be touched very lightly. To encourage lymphatic activity, pressure on the legs should always move in the direction of the heart (knee to hip, ankle to hip, foot to ankle). Because of increased danger of blood clots during pregnancy, the massage should be gentle. Acupuncture points should not be deeply stimulated, especially the spots known as "Spleen 6" (two and a half inches above the ankle on the inside of the leg) and "The Great Eliminator" (the webbing between the thumb and index finger), both of which could induce labor. Certain places on the foot are also to be avoided, like the mid-heel and the webbing between the big and second toes.

Foot Treatments:  Foot treatment, such as pedicures, foot baths or foot massages, are a great option, especially as your feet and ankles can often become sore, swollen and painful when you’re pregnant. And as your bump expands, tending to your own feet gets more difficult, so they may not get much of a look in during this time. Depending on what you choose to have done; foot treatments may involve gentle massages, a lovely soak in warm scented water, the removal of any rough skin and sprucing up your nails. A reflexology treatment also focuses on the feet and can be very relaxing to have done, either as a one off or over the course of several sessions.

Manicures and Hand Treatments:  Safe at any time of pregnancy, manicures and hand treatments are ideal if your hands could do with perking up. There are lots of basic manicures available, which normally just include nail shaping and polishing, but if you fancy an extra special one, there are usually additional options which include hand massage, arm massage and even going as far as neck and shoulder massage too. A treatment such as this is a great way of easing away any stresses and strains, without being too physical.

Hydrotherapy: Yes! Once you are in you won’t want to get out!