Woman relaxing in outdoor bath.
While going through fertility treatments or just trying to conceive there’s a need to de-stress and self-soothe. There can be ups and there can be downs. And the downs, like finding out you’re not pregnant after months of trying – or that a procedure did not result in a viable pregnancy – these things can tank your emotions for months.
Enter the baking soda bath. We want to be clear – baths are not for the week when you might be pregnant – or just went through implantation with IVF. And baths will not help boost your fertility on the days you are ovulating. Those weeks are off limits for bathing, as is the week you are menstruating. So be aware of the timing of your fertility window, but 2-3 days after your period has ended is a great time to soak.
Baking soda has been used throughout the ages as a healing remedy for its ability to suck out impurities, stop itch, and regulate the pH balance of your body.
Short list of benefits:
- Improves circulation
- Relieves pain from hemorrhoids and yeast infections
- Improves the elasticity of the skin and leaves it feeling smooth
- Can be used to exfoliate rough or dead skin patches
- Calms rashes and itch
- Helps neutralize and remove toxins or acid from the body
- Relieves anxiety
And it’s as easy as dumping a box of Arm & Hammer Baking Soda into running water.
Here are some ways to make it even better. Add Epsom or Himalayan salts. Salts are effective at soothing sore muscles. And you may add a few drops of lavender oil for relaxation. A splash, 1/3 of a cup, of apple cider vinegar will sooth, detoxify the body, and restore the natural pH balance of your skin.
Allow an uninterrupted 20-30 minutes to soak and a glass of water or peppermint tea to sip.
Caution: While these baths are generally safe, a few types of people should avoid them. And always test the temperature before getting in.
- Women who might be newly pregnant, or just had IUI or IVF
- High blood pressure
- Serious infections or open wounds
- Prone to fainting
- Diabetes
- If you’re pregnant or nursing
- Allergic to baking soda
- Do not mix drugs and alcohol with bathing
Be sure to relax and hydrate after your bath. And you may decide to make bathing a habit. Many cultures us baths as a way to promote life-long health and longevity.
