In an ideal world pregnancy would have you sitting on an industrial strength lily pad, wrapped in cashmere, sipping herbal teas and smelling of spring flowers for the duration of your gestation … back in the real world however you are more likely to be turning green on the commute to work, wondering exactly what part your feet are playing in this process that makes their swelling necessary, and contemplating how much one has to spend on leggings before it becomes a problem.  Thus, the nearest thing to a lily pad is a well deserved spa day, and perfect as they are for this time of your life, there are a couple of things to look out for … Formby Hall Golf Resort and Spa’s Spa Manager, Jackie Gordon explains …

Your first trimester is a particularly delicate time during pregnancy – are there any facilities and treatments you need to avoid and why?

Yes, in the first trimester your body is just getting used to everything so you should avoid massages and opt for less intense treatments that don’t put pressure on your stomach – try a facial or a head massage.  You should also steer clear of aromatherapy because certain oils can induce labour and also affect your moods which are already subject to change.  It does depend a little bit on the pregnancy, but I would not recommend using the sauna or steam room in these early stages – especially if you have high blood pressure, also definitely avoid the Jacuzzi – you are not supposed to over stretch or put pressure on your stomach at this time and the pummelling of the water definitely does that!

After the first trimester do things get a bit easier?

Yes, in the second trimester most people can be a bit more happy-go-lucky so while you still need to consider the individual pregnancy you are safer to use the steam room and sauna, but still be careful when it comes to over stimulating treatments like aromatherapy.

What makes that difference?

Your body has settled into the rhythm a bit and most of the sickness has subsided, so women can enjoy this part of their pregnancy!

What treatments would you recommend for a mum-to-be and why?

Head and shoulder massages are great because you get the relaxation element without putting pressure on the stomach.  By the time most women get into their third trimester they are quite big and uncomfortable, so we recommend a dry floatation which is a gentle, relaxing experience.  Most women also appreciate leg and foot massages because they can get quite swollen – but again you need to be careful about which oils are used.

What is the most common concern women have when they come to you during pregnancy?

Most women are worried about skin elasticity and stretch marks – the best way to deal with them is simply to use a body oil or a deep moisturiser regularly.

What do you think is the perfect spa day while you are pregnant?

We have a Maternity Indulgence Day package that offers an indulgence treatment, a facial and a pedicure – which is great because it’s gentle head to toe pampering.  But I would not suggest just having your treatments and going – we have a tranquillity room, a bistro where you can eat in your robe and slippers (everyone does, so you won’t feel out of place) and stay comfortable, we have foot spas, and of course the swimming pool is brilliant when you are expecting – simply take the full day to relax and unwind and use the facilities – it’s not all about the Jacuzzi!