There are things that you can do safely as a non-pregnant woman, but as soon as you find out you are pregnant, questions and doubts arise as to whether this or that might be allowed or might harm the baby.

Here, some of these lesser-known examples will be discussed to provide clarity.

Can I go on the sunbed and sunbathe?

Not recommended, as it can lead to very unsightly pigmentation disorders, which can be triggered by the altered hormone balance.

Tanning salons are obliged to advise pregnant women not to use them.

Can I continue to do competitive and risky sports?

Not recommended, as sports with a lot of abrupt movements, or risk of injury, endanger the placenta and thus the baby, because it can detach prematurely and lead to a miscarriage, even if the abdomen is not yet very pronounced.

So it is much better to replace horse riding, tennis, cycling or exercise with yoga, shiatsu or gymnastics.

Can I go to the sauna or the brine bath?

Yes, but in moderation and preferably not in the first three months of pregnancy, as the foetus is still very much at risk here. Even at the end of pregnancy, saunas and hot baths are not recommended, as they can induce premature labour and thus lead to premature birth.

Your circulatory system will tell you whether saunas are good for you during pregnancy or not, because even regular sauna-goers may no longer find the high temperatures pleasant because the entire circulatory system has changed.

As a general rule, public places such as saunas and baths are more prone to germs and thus also to infections in the genital area, which can possibly lead to complications during pregnancy. This is especially the case in hot spas and whirlpools, which are therefore better avoided.

Brine baths are less of a concern due to the natural disinfection of the salt.