Being pregnant is already hard. But with the everyday stresses that pregnant women face, the whole nine months can be challenging, and it takes a toll on a woman’s body, mind and emotions. When we have a pregnant family member, we try to do things that will make it easier for them. Pregnant women themselves engage in activities that make the whole experience more bearable and not much of a burden to them. Soaking in hot baths is one way that women can relieve body aches and emotional distress brought on by pregnancy and other circumstances. Let us look at the benefits of a good leisurely bath for pregnant women.
If you are pregnant and you love soaking in a warm bath, try adding Epsom salt to the water for added benefits. It is safe for pregnant women, as long as you don’t ingest it and overheat in the tub.
Relief from body aches
Carrying several pounds of excess weight will take a toll on the body. The back, hips, feet and shoulders will ache like crazy. All this weight will weigh you down but soaking for at least half an hour in the bathtub will help relieve these pains. The warm water and Epsom salt will release the tension from your muscles.
Reduction of stress
It is not only the pregnancy and the health of the baby inside you that you have to worry about. You also have to take care of other things like your job, other kids, family life, bills, and maintaining a clean house. All of these will stress you. And if you are stressed, the baby in your womb will feel it, and they too will be stressed. After a long day, fill the tub and pop in your favourite bath bomb and have a good read of your favourite book or listen to music, and you will wash away your stress.
Help with haemorrhoids
Constipation is a common problem during pregnancy, and a lot of women develop haemorrhoids. Alongside the constipation are the weight of the baby and the uterus pushing down on your insides. Haemorrhoids are swollen veins around the anus. It can hurt and feel uncomfortable. Soaking in a bath with Epsom salt will help shrink the veins and relieve the discomfort.
Itch relief
Because the skin stretches to accommodate the growing human inside of the body, it becomes itchy. With a warm bath, you relieve all the itching that you may be feeling. Apply a mild moisturiser or lotion while your skin is still damp to prevent drying of the skin, which can also become very itchy.
To make the bath a more relaxing experience, light some candles and place them on the edge of the freestanding bath or anywhere in the bathroom. A light scent will provide more relaxation. Some bath essentials such as a bath bomb, Epsom salt, essential oils and bubble bath soap will go a long way in providing relief.