bubble baths and pedicures!

[Anonymous]

ok, admittedly since this is my 2nd pregnancy i am not referencing the books as i did first time around (no time with a toddler)..but someone just asked me if my 2 favorite stress reducers were "allowed" during pregnancy, she thought pregnant woman are not supposed to take bubble baths, has anyone been told this by OB? also, i'm scheduled for an accupressure pedicure next week, anyone heard these are a no-no? i'll ask my OB this week if i remember, just curious if anyone has read or heard risks in either of these pleasurable activities@!!!!!

[Anonymous]

Pedicures themselves are fine, they just recommend that you skip the foot rub/massage part. There are some pressure points (around the ankles I think) that can cause contractions if stimulated. As for bubble baths, I'm not sure. I always take regular baths when pregnant, though.

[Anonymous]

she should ask her doctor but I was told both are perfectly fine and did both throughout my pregnancy. With the bath, you just have to make sure it's not too hot - not good for the baby!

[Anonymous]

Seconding what a PP said: In regard to the pedicure, there are certain acupressure points around the ankles that acupuncturists stimulate to induce labor in some cases. You should probably ask the pedicurist to avoid those areas.

[Anonymous]

I think another concern with the bubble baths is that sometimes a lot of soap in the water will encourage yeast infections or UTIs, because they irritate that area of the body. but if you've had no trouble with them in the past you're probably fine.

I have heard that certain pressure points in the heel can induce labor if massaged, and I think that's one of those homeopathic suggestions they tell you to try when you're overdue. but as long as you're careful or skip that part you're probably ok there, too.

[Anonymous]

thx ladies, i'm only 5.5 mos so i definitely dont want pedicurist to induce labor, but my toes are desperate! my friend had also said the actual bubbles could cause uti's or infections, but so far, no issue, i'll ask ob this week!!!

[Anonymous]

Per my doctor, low risk of infections from the bath as everything is sealed up and you are actually exerting pressure down and out, so it would be very difficult for bacteria to travel in and up. Also, need to watch the temp during the first 3 months - then as hot as you want the rest of the time (I usually got out when I started to sweat.) I was VERY careful to check this with my doc, as I love hot baths.

He (Dr. Engel) said the biggest danger from a bath during pregnancy was slipping in the tub

ENJOY! I can't live without my hot baths