Is it OK for Pregnant Women to Shower with Hot Water | iParenting
Pregnant women should test the water first
Hot water can work wonders to ease aching muscles and relax a tired body. But did you know bathing or showering with very hot water can cause trouble in paradise for pregnant women? We didn't think water temperatures could affect the yet-to-be born baby curled up in mommy's tummy, so to clear the air we got experts to answer our queries and tell us what's best.
Even though a hot shower can be extremely rejuvenating, pregnant women are advised to take note of the temperature of water when they step into the bath.
Dr. Rita Bakshi, Fertility Expert Gynecologist & Chairperson, International Fertility Center, Delhi, says, "It is okay for pregnant women to take a bath with hot water as long as the temperature is close to her body temperature, i.e. 100 degree."
The water should be comfortable enough for you to be able to get in easily. Water that can burn the skin or is displeasing to the body should be avoided.
"Always use warm water for a bath. Mixing half cold and half hot water is a good idea" says Dr. Meenakshi Ahuja, Director (Obs/Gyne), Fortis La Femme, Delhi.
The Risks:
"Burns, rashes and itching can take place due to bathing with hot water," explains Dr. Ahuja.
Hot water could lead to itching, sweat, decrease in blood pressure, burns on the skin and redness.
Dr. Bakshi elaborates, "If the water is too hot it can lead to increase in the heartbeat rate, reduces blood flow in the body that can lead to stress. Anything hotter can damage your baby's developing cells, and though you can cool off by sweating, your baby can't. It's also fine to use bath oils or bubble bath."
The Precautions:
It is always better to test the water first by putting in your forearm or palm and see if it is bearable. Water that's too hot can turn your skin red and cause you to sweat.
Appropriate Temperature:
Dr. Ahuja says, "A temperature of more than 45 - 50 degree celsius could be troublesome."
So water temperature below 45 degree Celsius or 102 degree Fahrenheit is good to bathe in especially for women who are expecting.
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