Who Should Avoid the Sauna?

Saunas are widely recognised for their cardiovascular, recovery, and wellness benefits. For most healthy adults, regular sauna use is safe, well tolerated, and can form part of a healthy lifestyle. However, there are important sauna safety considerations to understand before your first session.

If you're wondering who should not use a sauna, how long to stay in a sauna, or whether saunas are safe for people with medical conditions, this guide covers the key precautions.

Is Sauna Use Safe?

Research consistently shows that sauna bathing is safe for the majority of healthy adults when used responsibly. Regular sauna sessions have been linked to improved circulation, stress reduction, cardiovascular health, and overall wellbeing.

However, certain individuals should avoid sauna use or seek medical advice before starting a sauna routine.

Sauna and Pregnancy: Should Pregnant Women Use a Sauna?

Pregnancy is one of the clearest situations where sauna use requires caution.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) advises against activities that significantly raise core body temperature during pregnancy, particularly during the first trimester. Sustained maternal temperatures above approximately 38.9°C have been associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects and other developmental complications.

For this reason, most healthcare professionals recommend avoiding saunas during pregnancy unless specifically approved by your doctor or midwife.

Key takeaway:

• Avoid sauna use during pregnancy unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.
• Extra caution is recommended during the first trimester.

Heart Conditions and Sauna Use

Many people assume saunas are dangerous for the heart, but the reality is more nuanced.

Individuals with stable, well-managed cardiovascular conditions can often enjoy sauna bathing safely. In fact, several long-term Finnish studies included participants with existing cardiovascular risk factors.

However, sauna use is generally not recommended without medical clearance if you have:

• Unstable angina
• A recent heart attack
• Severe aortic stenosis
• Decompensated heart failure
• Uncontrolled arrhythmias

The British Heart Foundation advises speaking with your GP or cardiologist before starting sauna therapy if you have any diagnosed heart condition.

Key takeaway:

If you have a heart condition, seek medical advice before using a sauna.

Medications That May Affect Sauna Safety

Certain prescription medications can alter how your body responds to heat exposure.

Common medication types that may increase sauna-related risks include:

• Diuretics (water tablets)
• Beta-blockers
• Blood pressure medications
• Antihistamines
• Certain antidepressants
• Medications that reduce sweating

These medications may increase the likelihood of dehydration, overheating, dizziness, or excessive drops in blood pressure.

Key takeaway:

Always check with your GP or pharmacist if you take regular medication and plan to use a sauna regularly.

Alcohol and Sauna Use: A Dangerous Combination

One of the most important sauna safety rules is simple:

Never use a sauna while intoxicated.

Alcohol and sauna heat both affect circulation, hydration, and blood pressure. When combined, they can significantly increase the risk of:

• Severe dehydration
• Dangerous drops in blood pressure
• Cardiac arrhythmias
• Fainting
• Heat-related illness

Finnish population studies examining sauna-related incidents have repeatedly identified alcohol as a contributing factor in many serious adverse events.

Key takeaway:

Avoid sauna use for several hours after consuming alcohol.

Are Saunas Safe for Children?

Children regulate body temperature differently from adults, making heat exposure more challenging.

Children under the age of five should not use a sauna due to their immature thermoregulatory systems.

Older children may use a sauna under careful adult supervision, provided sessions are:

• Short (typically 10–15 minutes maximum)
• Conducted at moderate temperatures
• Followed by adequate hydration

Key takeaway:

Children under five should avoid saunas entirely.

How to Use a Sauna Safely

If you are healthy and have no medical restrictions, following a few simple sauna safety guidelines can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Before Your Sauna Session

• Drink water beforehand
• Avoid alcohol
• Avoid large meals immediately before use
• Remove jewellery and metal accessories

During Your Sauna Session

• Start with 5–10 minutes if you're new to sauna bathing
• Sit on a towel
• Leave immediately if you feel dizzy, unwell, or lightheaded
• Do not try to "push through" discomfort

After Your Sauna Session

• Cool down gradually
• Rehydrate thoroughly
• Allow your heart rate to return to normal
• Avoid strenuous exercise immediately if you feel fatigued

The Bottom Line

For most people, sauna bathing is one of the safest and most enjoyable wellness practices available. The benefits of sauna use are well supported by research, particularly when sessions are performed regularly and responsibly.

However, pregnancy, certain cardiovascular conditions, specific medications, alcohol consumption, and very young age are all situations where extra caution is required.

When in doubt, speak with your GP before beginning a sauna routine. A short conversation can help ensure you enjoy all the benefits of sauna bathing safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should not use a sauna?

People who are pregnant, intoxicated, recovering from a recent heart attack, experiencing unstable cardiovascular conditions, or taking medications that affect heat regulation should seek medical advice before using a sauna.

Is it safe to use a sauna every day?

For most healthy adults, daily sauna use is considered safe when sessions are kept within reasonable limits and adequate hydration is maintained.

Can I use a sauna if I take blood pressure medication?

Possibly, but some blood pressure medications can increase the risk of dizziness or low blood pressure during heat exposure. Speak with your GP before starting regular sauna use.

How long should a beginner stay in a sauna?

Most beginners should start with sessions of 5–10 minutes and gradually increase duration as their tolerance develops.

Should I drink water before and after a sauna?

Yes. Hydration is one of the most important aspects of sauna safety. Drink water before entering the sauna and rehydrate afterwards to replace fluids lost through sweating.