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Is it safe? · Pregnancy Smart

Are hot tubs safe during pregnancy?

Published by Pregnancy SmartEditorial and medical review policy

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What does the evidence say about hot tubs during pregnancy?

  1. Raising your core body temperature above about 102°F during the first trimester has been linked to a higher chance of neural tube defects. 1
  2. Most public hot tubs sit at around 104°F, hot enough to push your core temperature above that 102°F mark in just 10 to 20 minutes. 1
  3. Pregnant people are more vulnerable to heat-related illness in general, which is why it's smart to avoid anything that substantially raises your core temperature. 2
  4. A brief warm bath under 100°F is a safer alternative: it doesn't raise your core temperature anywhere near the concerning threshold. 1

Is hot tubs safe in each trimester?

  • First trimester. This is the highest-stakes window, since neural tube closure happens around weeks 3 to 4. Studies link a core temperature above 102°F to a higher chance of neural tube defects.
  • Second trimester. The same core-temperature caution continues. Lightheadedness and fainting also become more likely now as your circulation changes.
  • Third trimester. Same guidance as earlier. A shorter warm bath under 100°F is generally the better choice over a hot tub.

Frequently asked questions

What temperature and duration is generally considered acceptable for a warm bath in pregnancy?

A warm bath under 100°F for about 10 minutes stays well below the threshold experts flag as risky. Confirm your specific plan with your provider.

Is a hot tub the same as a sauna in terms of risk?

Both can raise your core temperature quickly. See our sauna guide for the specific time limits most often cited for dry-heat exposure.

I sat in a hot tub before I knew I was pregnant. Is my baby at risk?

One brief exposure is unlikely to cause harm. Mention it at your next appointment: your provider may note it in your chart, but it doesn't usually change your routine screening.

What about a hot shower?

A hot shower usually doesn't raise your core temperature as much as full-body immersion does, since your head and torso can cool as the water runs off. Keep showers comfortably warm, not scalding.

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References

  1. Hyperthermia and Pregnancy, MotherToBaby Fact Sheet

    MotherToBaby · https://mothertobaby.org/fact-sheets/hyperthermia-pregnancy/

  2. Clinical Overview of Heat and Pregnancy, CDC Heat Health

    CDC · https://www.cdc.gov/heat-health/hcp/clinical-overview/heat-and-pregnant-women.html

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.