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Is it true that pregnant women shouldn't take baths?

There's no reason not to take baths while you're pregnant, as long as the water isn't too hot. What's too hot? Any water that's hot enough to raise your body temperature to more than 102.2 degrees Fahrenheit for more than ten minutes.

A temperature that high can create a number of problems for a mom-to-be and her baby, including:

  • a drop in blood pressure, depriving the baby of oxygen and nutrients and making miscarriage more likely
  • dizziness and weakness in the mother
  • birth defects in the baby

That's why saunas, hot tubs, steam baths, and very hot tub baths aren't safe during pregnancy.

Some moms-to-be worry that bath water can get into the uterus and harm their developing baby. Fortunately, your uterus is sealed by a mucus plug that keeps your baby completely separated from the water you're soaking in.

Of course, a bath is a great way to soothe sore muscles and relax during pregnancy. How delightful to have your belly floating in water! Just keep the temperature warm, not hot, and be careful stepping in and out of the tub.

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