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A pampering pregnancy spa day is a wonderful opportunity for some much-needed relaxation. Combining tailored treatments, access to the communal facilities, and, often, refreshments or even a light meal, a spa day offers a few hours of welcome “me” time in a calm and safe environment.

If you – or someone you know – are expecting a new arrival, this guide offers you some inspiration for planning the perfect relaxing pregnancy spa day in Edinburgh.

What is a Pregnancy Spa Day?

An Edinburgh pregnancy spa day is similar to a regular spa day. The main differences are the available treatments and facilities.

Some thermal spa facilities are restricted during pregnancy, including those which involve heat (such as saunas and steam rooms), as well as things like massage jets and Jacuzzis. However, a cooling foot bath, ice fountain, or even a gentle swim can be soothing. Be mindful that the areas around wet facilities can be slippery, so take care when moving around.

In addition, spas offer plenty of calming relaxation spaces, where you can rest with a good book or enjoy a well-earned snooze.

As you’ll see later in this guide, packages will include specially adapted pregnancy spa treatments. Edinburgh venues might also offer refreshments, a light lunch, or even an elegant afternoon tea, turning a pregnancy spa day into an extra special treat.

Find out more in our pregnancy spa dos and don’ts.

Benefits of a pregnancy spa day

A mother-to-be spa day in Edinburgh can work wonders, offering many benefits for the mind and body during this exciting but stressful time. The main advantages include:

Alleviating swollen feet and ankles

Easing lower back pain

Encouraging healthy sleep

Reducing tension, stress and anxiety

Generally, spas are off limits during the first three months of pregnancy. During the third trimester, some pregnancy treatments may be unavailable, such as massages. So, the second trimester is the best time for a spa day, unless you’re advised otherwise.

On this point, it is important to check with a doctor before visiting a spa. Also, let us and the venue know about your pregnancy. This is to ensure the safety of you and the baby. If you are experiencing a high-risk pregnancy or other health issues, you may be advised to avoid the spa until after you have given birth.

Learn more in our pregnancy spa guide.

Popular Pregnancy Spa Treatments in Edinburgh

Many Edinburgh pregnancy spa day packages will include one or more treatments. Again, these are similar to treatments for non-pregnant guests. However, they have been developed to be safe for mum-to-be and baby. Some of the most popular pregnancy spa treatments Edinburgh venues offer are:

Pregnancy massage: Edinburgh spas which offer mother-to-be packages often feature the option of a restful and soothing pregnancy massage, which is suitable for guests in their second trimester. It employs special positioning, massage techniques, and products which keep mum and baby safe.

Pregnancy facials: Involving similar stages to a traditional spa facial, a gentle and relaxing pregnancy facial is focused on addressing and alleviating the issues which can affect pregnant skin. These may include dryness, hormone-related breakouts, and excessive pigmentation.

Head massages: Another wonderfully soothing pregnancy treatment Edinburgh spas offer, this is a great way to stimulate hair growth, ease tension, and promote restful sleep. It’s also a great option for guests who want to enjoy a spa massage but feel uncomfortable undressing or having their body massaged.

Body treatments: As well as massages, some pregnancy spa days in Edinburgh will offer the option of treatments like body scrubs or body wraps. Again, these treatments will have been modified to be safe for mums-to-be, but don’t be shy about asking questions or speaking up if you’re unsure whether a treatment or technique is right for you.

Foot and leg treatments: Depending on the spa, there may be a wider range of options targeting the feet and legs. These might include targeted massages or scrubs and foot soaks. These are great for easing swelling and giving mum-to-be the chance to get off her feet and relax while the therapist soothes away any discomfort.

Manicure: A luxury spa manicure is a wonderful treat, featuring stages to care for the hands, while leaving the fingernails and cuticles looking their best. To be on the safe side, some pregnant guests prefer to opt out of having nail polish applied to avoid coming into contact with chemicals like formaldehyde and toluene.

Pedicure: Alternatively, a spa pedicure offers a welcome opportunity to sit back, relax and let the therapist work their magic on those tired and neglected feet and toenails. Again, some pregnant guests prefer to go polish free or to take their own pregnancy-safe product with them to the spa.

The best Edinburgh pregnancy spas

If you’d like to plan a pregnancy spa day in Edinburgh, here are a few venues which offer packages which are perfect for mothers-to-be:

Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel & Spa: This stunning luxury spa hotel located in a pretty square in Edinburgh city centre offers a range of packages featuring indulgent Ishga treatments, including a wonderful 55-minute mum-to-be massage. Facilities include an experience shower and relaxation room.

PURE Spa & Beauty Edinburgh Rose Street: If you’d rather focus on treatments than on spa facilities, this popular city centre venue offers a mother-to-be package featuring the choice of two 60-minute treatments from a menu which includes a pregnancy massage, facial, and body wrap. Also available at other PURE Spa locations, including

PURE Spa & Beauty Edinburgh (Lothian Road)

PURE Spa & Beauty Newhaven Harbour

PURE Spa & Beauty DoubleTree Hilton Edinburgh Airport

All packages and venues are correct at the time of writing.

Ready to book an Edinburgh pregnancy spa day? Secure your favourite package today using our simple online booking system or contact us with any questions. 

If you’d like to gift a spa day for pregnant ladies in Edinburgh or are searching for a spa-related gift which mum-to-be can enjoy after pregnancy, take a look at our spa vouchers