Bathing Tips for Pregnant Women: Water Temperature, Duration, and Method

January 29, 2024

  Can pregnant women take a bath in the early stages of pregnancy? It is well known that the fetus is unstable during the first three months of pregnancy. However, if not cleaned regularly, dirt can affect the excretion function of pores, leading to itching, swelling, or other skin diseases. So, what is the correct way to do it? Let's see what the experts say.
 


 

  Mastering the most suitable water temperature

  During the first three months of pregnancy, if the body temperature remains above 39℃, it can easily cause spinal cord defects in the fetus. Therefore, when pregnant mothers take a bath, the water temperature should be kept below 38℃.

  Adopting the correct bathing method

  1. Avoid bathing on an empty stomach

  Do not take a bath one hour before or after a meal. Bathing on an empty stomach can easily induce hypoglycemia and cause fainting;

  Taking a bath after a full meal can cause skin blood vessels to expand, excessive blood flow to the surface of the body, affecting digestion, and easily leading to fainting.

  2. Optimal duration

  Pregnant mothers should not take excessively long baths.

  Pregnant mothers may experience symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, and chest tightness during showering, indicating insufficient blood supply to the brain, resulting in fetal hypoxia, increased fetal heart rate, and even adverse effects on the development of the fetal nervous system.

  Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant mothers limit their bathing time to 10-20 minutes.

  3. Optimal method

  It is not recommended for pregnant women to take sitz baths. If a sitz bath is taken, dirty water may enter the vagina, causing bacterial infection.

  It is advisable to take a standing shower, but handrails should be installed in the bathroom and non-slip mats should be laid to prevent slipping.
 


 

  What should pregnant women eat to relieve morning sickness in early pregnancy?

  1. Grapefruit

  Grapefruit contains a lot of folic acid. Moreover, it belongs to the citrus family, and its refreshing taste is favored by many pregnant women with morning sickness. Making grapefruit juice or salad is a good choice.

  2. Yogurt

  Yogurt contains a large amount of calcium that is needed during pregnancy. The strong acidity of yogurt makes it more acceptable for pregnant women with morning sickness. The lactobacillus in it can also help pregnant women alleviate constipation during pregnancy.

  3. Lemon

  Sour foods can stimulate gastric acid secretion and increase appetite.

  Lemons are rich in vitamin C and have the effects of invigorating the spleen and promoting digestion. Pregnant mothers can make their own apple lemon juice, which can not only relieve morning sickness but also supplement vitamins and minerals.

  Pregnant mothers can also smell lemons after waking up in the morning, which can help relieve morning sickness. However, lemons are acidic, so those with excessive gastric acid or gastric ulcers should consume them in moderation.

  4. Preserved plums

  Preserved plums are rich in iron, dietary fiber, and various vitamins, providing balanced nutrition. When severe morning sickness makes it difficult to eat, eating preserved plums can improve appetite and supplement various nutrients.

  They are also easy to carry when going out, and it is a good idea to eat one from time to time.

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