Is Epsom Salt Bath Safe for Pregnancy?

Epsom salt has many potential medicinal and therapeutic uses. Epsom salt baths can help with muscle pain relief, body relaxation, skin rejuvenation, and more. The good news is Epsom salt bath is believed to help with nausea and insomnia during pregnancy. But when it comes to taking an Epsom salt bath while pregnant, many of us start wondering if it is safe. Or is it even worth trying?

Thankfully, we have gathered some research-backed information on Epsom salt baths’ safety and potential benefits during pregnancy. In addition, there are expert guidelines to follow if you plan to give Epsom salt bath a try. Read on.

What is Epsom Salt?

Epsom salt is a magnesium-based chemical compound originally discovered in the town of Epsom in England. Over the centuries, it has become popular in the UK and around the world for its healing and detoxifying properties. Though Epsom salt and table salt have a similar crystalline structure, the chemical compounds differ. Aside from magnesium, Epsom salt contains sulfur and oxygen. That is why Epsom salt is also scientifically known as magnesium sulfate.

Pure Epsom Salt is often mixed with Lavender essential oil to create a powerful bathing formula named Lavender Epsom Salt. The combination works wonders to offer a relaxing and soothing experience.

Can Pregnant Women Take Epsom Salt Baths?

Experts have stressed that Epsom salt bath is generally safe for pregnant women. Even many midwives and obstetricians encourage taking Epsom salt baths since they can help relieve some of the aches and cramps of pregnancy. 

So 100% pure Epsom salt bath can be a great addition to your self-care routine during pregnancy but consult with your healthcare provider before adding certain essential oils with Epsom salt bath water, such as rosemary and clary sage. Therefore, as long as you are following safety guidelines and not ingesting Epsom salt, you will be fine.

Is Epsom Salt Bath Beneficial for Pregnancy?

Though the research on the benefits of Epsom salt baths while pregnant is not definitive, many experts offer it as an alternative medicine because of the high amounts of potentially beneficial compounds.

It’s reported by countless users and researchers that Epsom salt baths can help relieve nausea and constipation, as well as sore muscles. 

In addition, soaking in warm Epsom salt water works amazing for drawing out toxins, lowering stress levels, and balancing pH levels! That’s enough to persuade almost anyone to take a warm Epsom salt bath. But make sure that you are taking proper precautions.

Precautions To Take While Using Epsom Salt in Pregnancy

Although Epsom salt bath is generally safe for pregnancy, experts recommend the following safety precautions for safe pampering during pregnancy. 

Try to avoid hot baths. When soaking in, ensure that your body temperature is less than 101º F, as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) suggests.

Do not overindulge yourself. Maintain a good salt-to-water ratio and limit your time in the tub to 12–15 minutes. Consult with your doctor if you don’t know the ideal salt-to-water ratio for you.

Buy only 100 percent pure Epsom salt, free from additives such as artificial color and fragrance. Many recommend doing a skin patch test with magnesium sulfate and water first.

Never ingest Epsom salts to treat health problems like nausea and constipation during pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Epsom salt baths while pregnant aren’t only safe, but they can offer amazing health benefits if precautions are followed. However, going overboard with Epsom salt usage can harm you and your baby. Buy from trusted brands like Dr Teal’s Epsom Salt and Epsoak Epsom Salt. Definitely speak with your doctors before taking the plunge into a nice warm bath.