Maternity Spa Treatment

Spa treatments can be beneficial to a pregnant woman's physical and mental health. Advantages range from stress reduction to improved circulation and better skin tone. Being pregnant does mean that certain spa treatments might need to be altered, and a few should be avoided for the safety of your unborn child. With that in mind, there is no reason why a woman cannot enjoy a relaxing day of maternity spa treatments.

Types

• There are several spa treatments that a pregnant woman can enjoy safely. Among these are foot massages and reflexology, facials, hand treatments and manicures. Massages are allowed, but full body massages aren't recommended during the first trimester.

Considerations

• There are a few factors to consider when an expectant mother chooses a beneficial and safe spa treatment. First, avoid any treatment involving excessive heat. Saunas, stream rooms and body wraps can cause internal body temperatures to rise too high. Second, avoid any treatment that requires you to lie on your back for a long period of time. This can effect circulation--and it can be uncomfortable. Finally, being pregnant might mean you have developed a sensitivity to certain smells. If this is the case, notify the spa, especially if you are considering aromatherapy. Warning in advance can avoid embarrassing incidents, such as you becoming sick.

Misconceptions

• Unfortunately, some people believe that being pregnant means an end of spa treatments. Today, most health spas are equipped to serve pregnant women. Most massage therapists are used to working with the shape of a pregnant woman, so there is no need to feel embarrassed about your altering body. Some even specialize in antenatal massages. Many spas have specially designed tables with holes to accommodate the abdominal area. Others use bean bags during a massage session to mold to the shape of your body and offer support.

Benefits

• Foot treatments and reflexology help ease the pain and discomfort of swelling, a common problem during pregnancy. And as your pregnancy progresses, you will find that it's harder and harder to reach your feet. Facials help improve circulation, reduce acne and dryness. Massage works to improve circulation as well but also helps with relaxation and stress reduction.

Potential

• Maternity spa treatments also can be healthy for the unborn child, during birth and afterward. Massage and reflexology treatments help improve the blood flow throughout your body. This leads to increased levels of oxygen and nutrients for the expectant mother and the unborn child. During labor, massage can be used to increase comfort and decrease pain. After the child is born, the treatments are beneficial in helping a new mother regain her strength and energy.