ACOG Advises Caution on Infrared Sauna Use During Pregnancy Due to Overheating Risks
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has issued guidance on the use of saunas, including infrared saunas, during pregnancy. The primary concern is the potential for elevated maternal core body temperature, particularly during the first trimester, which could increase the risk of birth defects. Infrared saunas, while operating at lower ambient temperatures than traditional saunas, can still significantly raise core body temperature. ACOG advises pregnant individuals to avoid prolonged exposure to any heat source that could elevate core temperature above 101°F, especially during the critical early weeks of gestation when fetal neural tube development is most active. 
