If you’ve just become a new mother, congratulations! You may be wondering how infrared sauna and pregnancy affect each other, and whether or not red light therapy is beneficial postpartum.
While the thought of soaking your body in the warmth of a sauna to relieve backaches and other postpartum discomforts may sound wonderful, it’s important you consider the potential risks with the impending benefits to both yourself and your new baby. Here at Rimba Sweat, the safety and wellbeing of our clients are the number one priority. We always advise that new mothers speak to their doctors about infrared therapy before undertaking any sauna sessions.
In this article, we’ll discuss the intricacies of infrared sauna and pregnancy so that you can balance risk and benefit before making your decision on when you visit the infrared sauna. When it comes to infrared sauna and pregnancy, there have been many studies that prove that infrared therapy is safe – however, we recommend that all expecting mother’s follow their doctor’s guidance.
For those that are in the post-partum period of their pregnancy, infrared sauna therapy can be incredibly beneficial.
Benefits of Infrared Sauna Postpartum
Rimba Sweat recommends that any new mother weighing up using infrared sauna postpartum should first discuss the notion with their doctor and follow their intuition to decide what works best for their body. In saying this, Infrared sauna therapy can be extremely beneficial for new mothers, breastfeeding or otherwise when used properly.
Infrared light increases circulation, decreases inflammation and has been clinically proven to combat many of the symptoms associated with the post-partum period, including pain relief (muscles, joints, and chronic pain), fatigue, anxiety, and overall inflammation born during pregnancy.
In an infrared sauna, infrared light penetrates the skin’s surface, raising body temperature. Unlike a traditional sauna, infrared saunas don’t heat the air around you, instead, they warm the body directly, which in turn penetrates human tissue and skin more effectively. As your body absorbs this infrared heat, a deep and relaxing sweat is induced, which subsequently clears out any unwanted toxins.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the many benefits infrared sauna can provide postpartum for new mothers.
1. Inflammation
All pregnancies spark mild systemic inflammation in the body – it’s part of what happens to every woman during pregnancy. It is different however, to the inflammation generated by illness. Despite this, too much inflammation during pregnancy can lead to more severe complications.
Infrared light penetrates the body’s soft tissue to where inflammation occurs, significantly increasing circulation in the body and expanding the blood vessels to carry oxygen throughout the body thus helping to bring inflammation down to healthy levels.
2. Circulation
During pregnancy, your bodies focus on growing your baby combined with hormonal changes creates poor circulation within the body that can lead to swelling in the feet and hands. Infrared therapy can help the body during this time by boosting circulation and counteracting the poor circulation found during pregnancy. Furthermore, increased circulation in the body can help heal wounds caused by childbirth trauma, such as the caesarean surgery.
Moreover, improved circulation will help your body fight off disease and illness more effectively, especially post pregnancy. The cardiovascular boost induced by infrared light is often intense enough to provide similar benefits to that of a walk or light jog. With the intense fatigue and bodily strain that comes with early motherhood, it can be difficult to access other forms of exercise. Infrared sauna usage is an extremely gentle way to boost your cardio output, break a heavy sweat and reap all the benefits of exercise.
Similarly, the circulation benefits provided by infrared sauna help combat clogged ducts and mastitis. Even when clogged ducts don’t become infected, it can be extremely painful. Infrared sauna usage is a gentle way to prevent and treat clogged ducts for new mothers experiencing discomfort postpartum.
3. Breastfeeding
Every new mother’s experience with breastfeeding is entirely different. At Rimba Sweat, some of our post-partum clients have experienced increased lactation after sessions of infrared sauna therapy, improving milk supply. However, milk supply and the elements that may influence lactation are completely unique to the new mother and baby. There are no direct studies that prove that infrared sauna therapy will impact lactation.
For some, infrared sauna therapy can provide a number of benefits that in turn, lead to improved lactation. In turn, new mothers may leave the sauna feeling engorged immediately – which is why we may recommend planning going home to your bub or have a pump ready for after your session.
4. Fatigue and Pain
All new parents, fathers included, will suffer from fatigue postpartum – it’s inevitable, even with the easiest of babies. New mothers’ bodies have been pushed to their limit physically during birth, and pain is a normal experience.
Infrared therapy has been proven to treat both pain relief and chronic fatigue due to the deep penetration of infrared light into joints, muscles, and tissues to increase circulation throughout the body. Infrared sauna hormone balance is another added benefit, helping you feel a greater sense of normality.
5. Anxiety and Depression
Infrared light has been proven to release endorphins and other positive hormones in our brains, which helps combat depression and anxiety. One study, in particular, found that of ten patients suffering from depression who were treated with two weeks of near-infrared therapy, 6 out of 10 had complete remission and 7 out of 10 experienced improvements in their mental state.
Given the rise in post-partum anxiety and post-partum depression, infrared therapy can benefit all new mothers as a preventative measure.
6. Alone Time
The simple act of taking out time for self-care can be hugely positive. Especially during breastfeeding, we are entirely devoted to our babies, and it can be challenging to find time for yourself. However, if you can spare a short amount of time, you’ll find yourself extremely rejuvenated and more able to deal with everything motherhood throws at you.
Infrared Sauna Usage Postpartum Risks
If you’ve been wondering, ‘is infrared light bad for baby and myself during pregnancy, or after I give birth?’, it should be said that according to available scientific studies, there are no known negative effects of infrared therapy for pregnant or post-partum mothers in terms of scientific study.
Make sure to remain constantly hydrated before and after using the infrared sauna to reduce the potential for dehydration.
Also, it could be beneficial to have your doctor test for levels of heavy metals if heavy metal toxicity is a concern of yours. Any toxins in your body can be passed into your breastmilk, and theoretically, infrared light could release higher levels of toxins if you have a high heavy metal toxin count.
Rimba Sweat Infrared Sauna for New Mothers
We wish to empower you to listen to your body and your intuition and to make time for yourself in this wonderful new phase of your life. Infrared light can provide many benefits for new mothers; however, everyone’s body reacts differently and is unique. We recommend you consult with your doctor prior to using infrared saunas postpartum.
Located in the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Rimba Sweat’s exclusive infrared sauna Sydney studio has both standard and large rooms so that you can enjoy relaxing benefits by yourself or even with a friend.
If you feel like your body will benefit from infrared light therapy postpartum, book online now and enjoy access to our luxury infrared sauna studio in Manly.
Our studio is a consciously created space designed to promote healing. Experience the restoration and clarity that comes with the age-old practice of sauna combined with the modern technology of infrared heat.
FAQs
How does infrared sauna help postpartum? ›
Similarly, the circulation benefits provided by infrared sauna help combat clogged ducts and mastitis. Even when clogged ducts don't become infected, it can be extremely painful. Infrared sauna usage is a gentle way to prevent and treat clogged ducts for new mothers experiencing discomfort postpartum.
Is infrared sauna good for pregnancy? ›Women who are pregnant shouldn't use saunas because they are more likely to feel warmer overall and as a result may be more susceptible to overheating. A significant rise in body temperature in the early weeks of pregnancy could pose a risk to the baby, so infrared sauna use is not advised.
Is sauna good for postpartum? ›Increase circulation (and milk production)
Increased circulation, blood supply, and vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels that helps blood flow to the surface of the skin, including the breasts) will happen during a sauna and can support lactation and milk supply.
Breastfeeding mothers are advised not to use an infrared sauna due to potential risks that may be involved, however, it is best to consult with a medical professional.
What type of therapy is best for postpartum? ›Postpartum depression is often treated with psychotherapy — also called talk therapy or mental health counseling — medicine or both. Psychotherapy. It may help to talk through your concerns with a psychiatrist, psychologist or other mental health professional.
What is the best way to heal postpartum? ›- Get plenty of rest. Get as much sleep as possible to cope with tiredness and fatigue. ...
- Seek help. Don't hesitate to accept help from family and friends during the postpartum period, as well as after this period. ...
- Eat healthy meals. Maintain a healthy diet to promote healing. ...
- Exercise.
If you have an insensitivity to heat, have a fever, have a condition that inhibits your ability to sweat or have a pacemaker or defibrillator - we don't recommend using an infrared sauna.
Are there negative effects of infrared sauna? ›On the other hand, no harmful effects have been reported with infrared saunas. So if you're thinking of trying a sauna to relax, an infrared sauna might be an option.
Do infrared saunas affect fertility? ›The heat from an infrared sauna can affect male fertility in a few ways. First, exposure to high temperatures can reduce sperm count and motility. Additionally, the heat can damage sperm cells, leading to reduced fertility.
What should you avoid during postpartum? ›Avoid stairs and lifting until your doctor says these activities are OK. Don't take a bath or go swimming until the doctor says it's OK. Don't drive until your doctor says it's OK. Also wait until you can make sudden movements and wear a safety belt properly without discomfort.
What should you not do postpartum? ›
Don't drink alcohol, use street drugs or use harmful drugs. All of these can affect your mood and make you feel worse. And they can make it hard for you to take care of your baby. Ask for help from your partner, family and friends.
Does heat help with postpartum? ›Heat: Some women might find that heat feels better than cold. Try a nice warm bath (wonderful after vaginal delivery) or gently apply a heating pad to your abdomen for cramping or incision pain. Be careful not to fall asleep with a heating pad applied.
Does infrared sauna help balance hormones? ›Use an Infrared Sauna
Saunas help stimulate hormone release and reach optimal hormonal balance. Some of the most notable benefits of saunas for endocrine system health are the reduction of cortisol, and the increase of growth hormone, beta-endorphins, prolactin and norepinephrine secretion.
DON'T – SIT TOO LONG IF YOU PLAN TO EXERCISE AFTER YOUR INFRARED SAUNA SESSION. Far infrared saunas are designed to relax your body and muscles, which is the opposite thing your body needs before a workout.
Is it better to wear clothes in infrared sauna? ›We suggest wearing clean, loose clothing (cotton or any breathable material preferably) or your bathers but you may choose to wear a towel or no clothes at all if that's your thing! The benefit of having your very own sauna in your home means you have the privacy to enjoy your sauna exactly the way you want to.
How long is postpartum recovery? ›How long is the postpartum period? No matter how you delivered your baby, the postpartum recovery period is generally considered to be the first six weeks after childbirth.
Which patient is most prone to postpartum depression? ›The risk for postpartum depression is highest among first-time mothers, mothers younger than 25 years old and mothers of twins, according to a survey of more than 1.1 million moms worldwide.
What are postpartum patients at risk for? ›Common postpartum complications
Infection or sepsis. Excessive bleeding after giving birth (hemorrhage) A disease of the heart muscle that makes it harder for your heart to pump blood to the rest of your body (cardiomyopathy)
Prepare for the 5-5-5 rule: 5 days in the bed, 5 days on the bed, 5 days near the bed. This gives you a solid two weeks of focused intentional rest. It also helps to get your priorities in order when it comes to those eager visitors.
What is the 555 rule postpartum? ›In our childbirth education classes at Blooma we encourage students to abide by the 5-5-5 rule the best they can. New mothers should plan to spend at least 5 days in the bed, 5 days on the bed, and 5 days near the bed. Do you remember birthing your placenta? There is a wound that size that needs to heal.
Should I cover my hair in infrared sauna? ›
#1 Take cover
Wrapping a towel around your head is more than just aesthetics; it's the best known way to prevent the heat reaching your hair in it's full power and drying it out. Covering your hair will keep it moist and avoid dehydration.
However, we do recommend that you should shower after an infrared sauna too. Because you sweat during your session and toxins are released, having a shower after your sauna will help to cleanse the skin and close pores.
Should I protect my hair in infrared sauna? ›Hair protection in the sauna
Optimally, you should always keep your hair protected while taking a sauna. A sauna cap/hat or a towel are all suitable for this purpose. You can wet the towel with cool or cold water to keep the hair protected for longer.
There is no one answer for the amount of sessions per week, but infrared saunas are safe to use every day. In fact, you will see wellness improvements sooner if you use it daily. On average, most people partake in 30-45 minute sessions, 3-4 times a week.
What happens if you don't sweat in an infrared sauna? ›One of the most common reasons why people don't sweat in infrared saunas is because they are not hot enough. This is especially true for those who are new to using these saunas. If you find that you are not sweating after a few minutes in an infrared sauna, try turning up the heat.
Can I sauna during two week wait? ›You may continue with most exercise regimens you enjoyed before. One exception would be to avoid activities that increase your core body temperature quite a bit (e.g. hot yoga, saunas, steam rooms). The other caution would be with high-impact exercise (e.g. running or aerobics).
Does sauna prevent implantation? ›There are studies which suggest sauna bathing does not affect fertility and which will argue pregnant women can adapt to the thermal stress of a sauna.
How long can a pregnant woman be in a sauna? ›The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggest using a sauna for no more than 15 minutes and using a hot tub for no more than 10 minutes. To help keep from getting too warm in a hot tub, sit with your arms and chest above the water.
What not to do during 6 weeks postpartum? ›Don't put anything into the vagina
This usually occurs around your 6-week postpartum checkup. Why? Well, the first reason is because of the risk of infection. Your uterus is still physically recovering from birth — and if you had any vaginal repair, those areas will be healing, too.
- Whole grains and soaked and sprouted grains, (rice, millet, quinoa, oats, amaranth)
- Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, brazil nuts)
- Healthy proteins (organic eggs and chicken, grass-fed beef, wild salmon, sardines)
- Seaweed.
Why do you have to wait 40 days after giving birth? ›
The risk of having a complication after delivery is highest during the first two weeks after delivery. But waiting will also give your body time to heal. In addition to postpartum discharge and vaginal tears, you might experience fatigue, vaginal dryness, pain and low sexual desire.
What not to do before 6 weeks postpartum? ›It's always advised to avoid housework, heavy lifting, and other strenuous physical activity immediately after giving birth and those first days and weeks postpartum. You'll be sore, tired, and recovering right after the birth, so aim to ease into your new routine after delivery with help from family and friends.
How long does it take for your uterus to shrink after giving birth? ›The uterus starts shrinking within minutes of giving birth, but it takes about six weeks to fully return to its previous size. If you're concerned that your uterus is not shrinking after pregnancy or you still look pregnant after the two-month mark, speak to your doctor or your local pelvic floor physiotherapist.
How can you speed up the postpartum healing process? ›- Help your perineum heal. ...
- Care for your C-section scar. ...
- Ease aches and pains. ...
- Stay regular. ...
- Do your Kegels. ...
- Be kind to your breasts. ...
- Keep your doctor appointments. ...
- Eat well to ease fatigue and fight constipation.
- Exercise. Over time, your postpartum belly will lessen on its own. ...
- Eat well. Just like you maintained a healthy diet while pregnant, try to commit to eating healthy postpartum. ...
- Be realistic. Remember that giving birth is one of the most incredible things you'll ever do.
When your newborn suckles, your body produces a hormone called oxytocin that causes your uterus to contract. The increased contractions narrow the blood vessels in your uterus, preventing bleeding. The contractions also cause your uterus to shrink back to its original size more quickly.
Does infrared sauna detox estrogen? ›Infrared Sauna is one of the top recommendations for expelling these heavy metals. Estrogen Dominance is another issue that we notice a fantastic result from Infrared Saunas. Estrogen Dominance is usually when your old/waste/fake estrogen is floating in the body and can't get out.
Does sauna affect female fertility? ›Sauna bathing does not decrease female fertility. The effect of sauna on testicular function also remains unproven.
Does infrared sauna increase hair growth? ›Infrared Saunas and Hair
Because saunas help to detoxify the body, your general health & wellbeing can improve and infrared therapy can also increase collagen & elastin which promotes hair growth (infrared therapy has been used as a form of treatment for hair loss).
Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Most people do not drink enough water to begin with and now that you are using an infrared sauna and sweating, it is even more important to stay properly hydrated. Always drink plenty of water before, during and after your sauna session.
How much water should I drink after infrared sauna? ›
At least one liter of water should be taken after immediately after the bathing to restore water balance in the body. Drinking too little water the next day can cause headaches and poor feeling in the body.
How much water should you drink after an infrared sauna? ›We highly recommend drinking a minimum of 1 litre of water prior to entering the sauna, 1 litre whilst using the sauna and a minimum of 0.5 litres of water after sauna use.
Can I take my phone in infrared sauna? ›The longer the room temperature stays above 35 degrees Celsius, the more (permanent) damage will be done. Also, remember that infrared saunas achieve heat intensities of 45-60 degrees Celsius (113 - 140 F). With those temperatures, you'll be killing your phone over time.
Can I bring my phone in a sauna? ›Depending on the type of sauna you are using, you may be able to take your phone into a sauna, however, bear in mind that high temperatures and humidity/moisture can cause damage.
Is it better to do infrared sauna in morning or night? ›Best Times for infrared sauna sessions are early in the morning or before bedtime in the evening, although anytime is good. When you first begin to use your infrared sauna, Start Slowly. Users average 25-35 minute sessions. You may not sweat a lot during your first 2-3 sauna sessions.
Does infrared sauna help with recovery? ›Promotes Muscle Recovery
Perhaps one of the biggest boons to using a sauna after your workout is the effects it can have on muscle recovery. The aforementioned study, for example, found that 30-minute sessions in an infrared sauna decreased post-workout muscle soreness and boosted recovery.
Your postpartum recovery won't be just a few days. Fully recovering from pregnancy and childbirth can take months. While many women feel mostly recovered by 6-8 weeks, it may take longer than this to feel like yourself again. During this time, you may feel as though your body has turned against you.
How many times should you do infrared sauna for benefits? ›There is no one answer for the amount of sessions per week, but infrared saunas are safe to use every day. In fact, you will see wellness improvements sooner if you use it daily. On average, most people partake in 30-45 minute sessions, 3-4 times a week.
Is it important to shower after infrared sauna? ›However, we do recommend that you should shower after an infrared sauna too. Because you sweat during your session and toxins are released, having a shower after your sauna will help to cleanse the skin and close pores.