Bubble Baths During Pregnancy

Nothing seems more heavenly than a nice, relaxing bubble bath. It washes away the pent up stress, frustrations, worries and other worldly concerns, at least for the small time that you spend taking one. Moreover, if you have problems sleeping, a bubble bath wonderfully and subtly induces sleep without any trouble. During a time like pregnancy, when you are worried, suffering from severe mood swings, and are generally overwhelmed by the physical and emotional changes you are undergoing, a bubble bath can really be the much required stress buster for you. With all that it has to offer, you are sure to feel rejuvenated and refreshed after one. However, a lot of you may be concerned about whether it is safe to soak in one when you are pregnant. Let's find out here.

Pros and Cons of Taking Bubble Baths While Pregnant

A lot of women are under the impression that taking bath during pregnancy is dangerous and unsafe for the baby. This belief has emanated from a myth that taking a bath at this time will cause the baby to drown. In such a case, keeping bubble baths out of the question, even a normal bath is avoided. However, a pregnant woman can and should soak in a bath as long was the water is warm and not scalding hot. Extremely hot water causes an imbalance in the body temperature and may cause you to feel lightheaded and exhausted after a hot bath. During pregnancy, if the body temperature rises, it does not reduce easily. So the water should be kept lukewarm and not hot. Also, while soaking in a bath, it is safer to keep the abdomen above water levels.

As far as bubble baths are concerned, you may choose to relax in one, as long as you keep the following facts in mind.

• Always choose soaps that are meant for sensitive skin, so as to prevent the outbreak of rash or other reactions, to which you may be more susceptible during pregnancy.
• Some doctors say that bubble baths are not good for a woman's genitals, where a delicate pH balance exists. These solutions disrupt this balance by adding alien substances to it. These substances then result in problems such as irritation and itching, along with discharge and odor. During pregnancy, the body undergoes hormonal changes, which makes it more susceptible to different types of infections.
• It is also suggested that the bladder be emptied before a bubble bath, so as to reduce the chances of an infection.
• Bubble baths are likely to make the tub slippery, and the risk of injury is much more during pregnancy. This is because of the change in the body weight, and the overall balance of the body. Avoid taking a bath when you are alone, and ensure that you have some assistance while going into and getting out of the tub.

Though this has been advised, there are many women who claim that they have been taking regular bubble baths during pregnancy without any trouble or ill-effects.

• A bubble bath can do wonders for those aches and sores you have been developing, and get rid of all the exhaustion during pregnancy.
• Women who experience severe backaches during pregnancy can enjoy a relaxing bubble bath to ease the pain.
• A bubble bath also helps in moisturizing the whole body, which may be difficult during the period of pregnancy.

The only cautionary measure to take is to keep a bottle of water at hand to help keep you hydrated, and ease through the temperature fluctuations. It also maintains blood pressure levels.

It is true that your body may react differently to a bubble bath than other pregnant women. To avoid any trouble, consult your doctor before soaking in a bubble bath. Also, if you are concerned about the kind of bath salts and oils to use, you may opt for special scents that are made and sold solely for pregnant women. These you may find over the internet, or consult a herbalist for the same.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.