🤰Pregnancy and Floatation Therapy: A Weightless Way to Relieve Stress and Discomfort.

Floating While Pregnant: A Soothing Weightless Escape for Moms-to-Be

Floating has become a go-to sanctuary for relaxation—and it’s no surprise that more and more expecting moms are dipping into float rooms for a much-needed break from the weight (literally) of pregnancy. From easing back pain to the magical stillness that lets you tune in to your baby’s heartbeat, the benefits are both emotional and physical.

But with this rise in prenatal floating comes a common and important question:

“How do I float comfortably while pregnant?” As always, let’s start with the golden rule…

🩺 First Things First: Talk to Your Doctor

We’re all about helping you feel your best, but when it comes to your health (and your baby’s!), your doctor is the ultimate go-to. Every pregnancy is different, and your provider can confirm whether floating is a good fit for you.

That said, many expecting moms do find floating safe and wonderfully beneficial—especially in the second and third trimesters. So let’s dive into some tips!

🤰 Best Float Positions for Pregnancy

One of the coolest things about floating while pregnant is that it gives your body a break from gravity. And trust us—your spine, hips, and joints will thank you.

Here are a few mom-approved floating positions that can help you feel comfy and supported during your session. Remember: height, body type, and baby bump size all play a role, so feel free to experiment gently.

1. Belly Down with a Pool Noodle (We provide pool noodles!)

This one’s a favorite. Grab a pool noodle, place it under your chin or across your arms, and float belly down. The noodle helps keep your face out of the water, and your body gets that delicious pressure relief.

Bonus: many moms say they even drift into a peaceful nap in this position. Don’t worry—the noodle keeps your head supported the whole time.

2. Floating on Your Back

Once your doctor gives the thumbs up, floating on your back is also an option—yes, even during pregnancy! Unlike lying flat on your back outside the tank (which can compress certain blood vessels), the weightlessness of floating removes that pressure.

You might add a small inflatable pillow or pool noodle under your knees or back, but many moms find that the saltwater does all the work. It’s like being suspended in a warm cloud.

🧠💆‍♀️ How Floating Can Support Mom's Health

While floating is known for its deep relaxation, it’s also a surprisingly effective way to relieve common pregnancy-related discomforts. Here’s how floatation therapy can help support the body medically during pregnancy:

1. Reduces Muscular and Joint Pain

As the baby grows, your center of gravity shifts, which increases strain on your spine, hips, and joints. This often leads to back and pelvic pain.

Floating counteracts gravity, giving the musculoskeletal system a chance to rest. Studies show floatation can significantly reduce muscle tension and pain by promoting deep muscular relaxation.

2. Lowers Stress and Cortisol Levels

High stress during pregnancy can lead to complications like poor sleep and elevated blood pressure. Float therapy has been shown to reduce cortisol levels—the body's primary stress hormone—by promoting parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) activation.

Regular sessions may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression while improving emotional well-being.

3. Improves Sleep Quality

With frequent nighttime discomfort, many pregnant people struggle to get restorative sleep. Floating enhances deep relaxation and encourages theta brainwave activity; a state linked to early sleep cycles and deep meditation.

This can help:

• Fall asleep more easily

• Stay asleep longer

• Wake feeling more refreshed

4. Supports Circulation and Reduces Swelling

Swelling (edema), particularly in the feet and hands, is common during pregnancy. Floating improves blood flow and reduces hydrostatic pressure, which may relieve fluid retention and promote lymphatic drainage.

The horizontal, zero-gravity position also reduces compression of veins and arteries—supporting healthier circulation.

5. Creates a Mind-Body Connection with Baby

The silence and stillness of the float environment helps many moms tune in deeply to their baby—sometimes even hearing the heartbeat more clearly. That sense of bonding and inner awareness can ease anxiety and promote a calm, grounded state.

⚠️ A Note on Safety

Some sources advise against floating during the first trimester, although there's no specific data confirming risk. This recommendation likely stems from the fact that the first trimester is when miscarriages are most common.

Always consult with your doctor before floating—especially if you’re early in pregnancy or have any medical conditions.

💬 Final Thoughts: A Weight Off Your Shoulders (and Belly)

Floating while pregnant isn’t just about comfort—it’s about nurturing your body, calming your mind, and deepening your connection to your pregnancy. Whether you're in it for pain relief, peace, or just a moment of stillness, floatation therapy can be a beautiful, supportive tool on your journey to motherhood.

So go ahead, mama—let go and float. You’ve got this. 💙

📚 Sources:

1. Feinstein, J. S., Khalsa, S. S., Yeh, H., Wohlrab, C., Simmons, W. K., Stein, M. B., & Paulus, M. P. (2018). Examining the short-term anxiolytic and antidepressant effect of Floatation-REST. PLoS ONE. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0190292

2. Kjellgren, A., & Westman, J. (2014). Beneficial effects of treatment with sensory isolation in flotation-tank as a preventive health-care intervention – a randomized controlled pilot trial. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

3. Turner, J. W., & Fine, T. H. (1983). Effects of restricted environmental stimulation therapy (REST) on plasma cortisol, blood pressure, and mood: A controlled study. Biological Psychology.💙

* The risk related to a pregnant woman lying down on her back (on a flat surface, not a float tank) is due to constriction of blood flow to the placenta. This can interfere with the development of the baby. Also, the weight of the uterus can put pressure on major veins, causing dizziness and discomfort for the mother. In a sensory deprivation tank, this doesn’t seem to happen, because there is no rigid surface behind the mother to cause detrimental pressure on the circulatory system. Furthermore, floating has been shown to have positive benefits such as lowering blood pressure, which can also help a pregnant mother to have healthy blood flow to her heart and to the baby’s placenta.