Are hot tubs and saunas safe during pregnancy?
Overheating in early pregnancy is linked to neural tube defects.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Christopher Sterling, obstetrician ·
The short answer
Hot tubs, saunas and steam rooms are best avoided in pregnancy. Raising your core body temperature, especially in the first trimester, has been linked to neural tube defects, and the heat can also make you faint. Warm (not hot) baths are fine.
Why it matters
A hot tub at 40°C can raise your core temperature above 39°C (102°F) within minutes — a level linked in studies to a higher risk of neural tube defects in early pregnancy.
Pregnancy already lowers blood pressure; heat widens blood vessels further, which can make you dizzy or faint.
Fever has the same effect, which is why it’s worth treating a high temperature in pregnancy and calling your midwife if it persists.
What to do
- Skip hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms and hot yoga.
- Keep baths warm rather than hot.
- Treat a fever and contact your midwife or doctor if it doesn’t come down.
Common questions
Are warm baths safe during pregnancy?
Yes. A warm bath is fine — just avoid water hot enough to make you sweat or feel faint.
Sources
Medically reviewed by Dr. Christopher Sterling, obstetrician, on against the sources above. Guidance can differ between countries — always follow the advice of your own midwife, doctor or pharmacist. Medical disclaimer.
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