Sauna does pregnant good - in moderation

Sauna is the relaxation and is therefore very comfortable during pregnancy. The change between heat and cooling stimulates circulation and metabolism, strengthens the immune system and relaxes the muscles.

For pregnant women, the visit to a sauna can also have beneficial effects. The loss of water during perspiration to reduce water retention. It is believed that pregnant sauna-goers also an easier birth have. Because through regular visits to the sauna, the muscles are not only relaxed but also soft.

Pregnant women can go from the beginning of pregnancy until a short time before the birth in the sauna when

• They are accustomed to regular sauna,

• No complications occur during pregnancy and

• They have the previously discussed with their doctor.

Women who hitherto have had no experience with the "sweat-out", should not start with the sauna, however, during the first three months of her pregnancy. Because in this period the fetus is particularly sensitive to unusual external influences.

The sauna: Pregnant women should take shorter

Although saunas are generally allowed, pregnant women should now take it easy.

Two courses per sauna visit and week are sufficient. A sauna session should not exceed the period of about ten to twelve minutes. In addition, now should lower temperatures are chosen. So saunas with temperatures between 50 and 60 degrees are usually better tolerated than those in which it can be 90 degrees. The lower sills are particularly suitable for expectant mothers for two reasons. Here it is not so hot and the output can be reached more quickly if the pregnant woman suddenly feels uncomfortable. Even if all other sit - it is recommended that pregnant women leave the sauna immediately if they feel that their heat does not do well. Women should also remember that steam baths by the interaction of heat and moisture circulation weigh more than dry saunas.

Before sauna prepares a warm footbath the body to the upcoming heating before and stimulates the circulation. After the sauna, however pregnant women should refrain from the plunge pool. This is especially true near the end of pregnancy. It is better to cool with water from a hose. Initially, the legs and arms and then showered back and abdomen.

Shortly before the birth of the sauna should be treated with caution. The high temperatures or certain scents in the infusion May contractions are triggered.

In general: Drink a lot!

Expectant mothers have an increased need for fluid and should drink at least two liters of water or unsweetened fruit and herbal teas daily. When sweating heavily in the sauna, the fluid loss must be compensated soon. Highly suitable are mineral water and fruit juice.