With regard to their role in the personal hygiene of the expectant mother, maternity nurses should be aware that:

Tub bathing is permitted even in late pregnancy unless membranes have ruptured.

The perineum should be wiped from back to front.

Expectant mothers should use specially treated soap to cleanse the nipples.

Bubble bath and bath oils are permissible because they add an extra soothing and cleansing action to the bath.