What are some considerations for hot tub use when pregnant?

Hot tub use during pregnancy is not advisable as it may cause hyperthermia, an unusually high body temperature that increases the risk of birth defects in babies, according to the American Pregnancy Association. The safest option for expectant women who want pain relief and relaxation is a hot bath.

A hot bath does not scald or overheat the body temperature, as most of the bath water cools off, and a greater part of the body is out of the water, explains the American Pregnancy Association. Expectant women who still choose to use a hot tub may reduce the hyperthermia risk by lowering tub temperatures, limiting tub time and monitoring their body temperatures while in the tub.