PREGNANCY PRECAUTIONS

Tuesday, December 12, 2006

Overheating (Hot Tubs, Saunas, Electric Blankets, etc.)

Should I avoid or limit it? Yes. You should limit activities that would raise your core temperature above 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius). They include:

using saunas or hot tubs
taking very hot, long baths and showers
using electric blankets or heating pads
getting a high fever
becoming overheated when outside in hot weather or when exercising
What are the risks, if any, to my baby? If your body temperature goes above 102 degrees Fahrenheit (38.9 degrees Celsius) for more than 10 minutes, the elevated heat can cause problems with the fetus. Overheating in the first trimester can lead to neural tube defects. Later in the pregnancy, it can lead to dehydration.

What can I do about it? Instead of hot tubs or saunas, take a dip in a cool pool. And it's probably a good idea to stick to warm or slightly hot baths and showers. If you have a fever during your pregnancy, talk to your doctor about ways to lower it. And follow your body's cues that you're getting overheated when exercising or enjoying the great outdoors in the warmer months.

But if you've already become overheated during your pregnancy, don't worry too much about it. Chances are, you removed yourself from the uncomfortable situation before any damage was done.

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