Saunas in early pregnancy?

[LittleMyDancingForJoy]

We're off to Finland for our holidays tomorrow and have just discovered I'm pregnant...only about four weeks gone so early days.

Saunas are a big part of Finnish life, so am I barred from them at this stage, or is it ok to steam myself?

At least it's not winter, so there's no jumping in the frozen lake afterwards.....!!

[solo]

I think they are a no no. Your blood pressure can be affected with the heat. I'd steer clear, but I'm no expert. Maybe someone in the know will be able to help.

[drowninginlaundry]

I'm Finnish
i've always had saunas throughout my three pregnancies all the way to the end
everyone does it there and there are no health warnings against them

[LittleMyDancingForJoy]

I had a feeling that was the case....poo.

Finns even give birth in saunas, they like them so much!

[LittleMyDancingForJoy]

ooooo, a proper Finnish person!

really? they don't advise against them? NHS Direct is most sniffy about them on their website.

[drowninginlaundry]

I don't think anyone gives birth in saunas anymore though....

[drowninginlaundry]

Nope, they don't. Never did anyone I know any harm.

[LittleMyDancingForJoy]

Seems like a hot place to do all that pushing!

[zoejeanne]

Congratulations littlemydancingforjoy

I went on holiday to Sweden earlier this year and concieved whilst there - and used the saunas. My doc said I shouldn't worry about it. But to be on the safe side don't stay in for very long or go in when very hot - I'd take advice before you go if you can. (I wonder what the Scandinavians do, and if they have different advice to us!)

Z.x

[drowninginlaundry]

if it gets too hot and uncomfortable I just get out
listen to your body and you'll be fine
make sure you use a vihta!

[LittleMyDancingForJoy]

I've never been very good at hot hot hot saunas, anyway, so I'd probably wuss out before it got very hot.

i'm a bit paranoid as we lost a baby at 20 weeks in Feb (severe heart defects) so I'm a bit anti risk, iyswim.

[LittleMyDancingForJoy]

what's a vihta?

[zoejeanne]

OK, drowninginlaundry has answered my question already - lots of posts all at the same time there! I guess it's the same as drinking, eating seafood etc - it's us to up to make the final judgement on what is safe and what isn't.

Enjoy your holiday

Z

[solo]

I know jacuzzi's(sp) are not recommended.

[LittleMyDancingForJoy]

Just back from Helsinki and wanted to say thank you, esp drowninginlaundry - really enjoyed the saunas, never stayed in very long but it was lovely.

no vihtas available though