Pregnancy brings many new sensations, including some pelvis and back discomfort.
If you’re experiencing muscle tension, an electric heat pad can provide some welcome relief. But, is using a heat pad safe if you’re pregnant?
In short, yes it is safe to use a heat pad during pregnancy, with some precautions.
Here’s what you need to know about using a heat pad during pregnancy – whether you’re suffering tension for the first time, or want to continue enjoying your trusty heat pad.
Are heat pads safe to use while pregnant?
If you’re expecting a baby, it’s natural to feel curious about the safety of treatments. After all, you may have been advised not to use hot tubs or saunas during your pregnancy.
This is because your core temperature can be affected by using a hot tub or sauna, which in turn could affect your baby. If your baby’s temperature rises, there is a higher chance of birth abnormalities. Particularly in the first trimester (3 months) of your pregnancy.
‘It’s possible that a significant rise in your core temperature could be harmful in pregnancy, particularly in the first 12 weeks.’ – advice from the NHS website
However, using a heat pad provides localised heat to only one area of your body.
How long can I use a heat pad for during pregnancy?
According to the NHS, it is safe to use gentle heat ‘10-20 minutes, two or three times a day’ to relieve muscle tension in the back or pelvis during pregnancy.
So, in most cases, you should be fine to use a heat pad during pregnancy. But, you should stick to the NHS guidelines of only use for short periods, on a low heat level. If you feel overly hot, feel severe discomfort, or if your baby’s behaviour changes, stop using it.
If you’re unsure or worried about symptoms, ask your GP or midwife for guidance. You should also ask a doctor before you use a heat pad directly on your belly.
How heat can relieve tension during pregnancy
If you’re experiencing tension or discomfort during pregnancy, you’re not alone.
- Over a third of people experience back or pelvic tension while pregnant
- Some people also experience muscle tension in the legs and thighs
- The intensity and duration can change during trimesters of pregnancies
- Back or abdomen tension is more common during the last two trimesters
- You’re more likely to experience it if you have existing muscle tension
Changes in your hormones, which can affect the muscles around your joints, alongside carrying the extra weight of a growing baby, can all combine to cause discomfort.
Although tension can’t be ‘cured’, a heat pad can provide some welcome relief.
You may already have used a heat pad for period cramps or back tension. Applying gentle heat to your pelvis or back helps increase blood flow to the area. This can help to boost circulation and relax tense or aching muscles, providing much-needed comfort.
How to use a heat pad safely when pregnant
If you’re pregnant, here’s how to safely use a heat pad on your abdomen or back. First, talk to your doctor. It’s best to check there’s not an underlying cause of discomfort.
Start with the lowest setting, for around 10 to 20 minutes, then adjust as needed. Some pads allow you to control the intensity and time. Pick one designed with safety in mind, so you won’t burn your skin, or fall asleep with your pad on through the night.
Some sources advise against using a heat pad directly on your belly while pregnant.
Use a heat pad on your pelvis
A rectangular heat pad can be used underneath your clothing, and is portable enough to take to work. It can be used all over the body, including on your pelvis, thighs, or legs.
To avoid overheating or raising your core temperature, use one heat source at a time.
Use a heat pad on your back
Back tension during pregnancy is common, due to the weight of carrying your baby.
A heat pad with back support gives hands-free relief, ideal if you’re on your feet at home or work. The comfortable belt helps keep the heat in place, where you need it the most.
Choose the right heat pad for you
Our electric heat pads offer controlled, gentle heat to help relieve tension in pregnancy.
Whatever style you choose, enjoy warmth exactly where you require it most for relief from tension in the back, thighs, or legs. The gentle heat eases muscle tension while catering to your comfort with customisable temperature settings and soft, hypoallergenic fabric.
- Targeted: a heat pad gives targeted relief to one particular area of the body
- Temperature control: heat pads are designed to stay at a consistent temperature
- Portable: discreet and easy to use, a heat pad is portable enough to bring to work
- Safety features: designed with safety built-in, such as an automatic shut-off
- Cost-effective: our heating pads run on mains electricity and are cheap to run
As well as tension in your muscles, pregnancy can leave you feeling run down and tired. Cosying up with a heat pad can be a good way to relax and look after yourself.
Other ways to feel better during pregnancy
During pregnancy, it is normal to feel some discomfort, but there is support available.
If you find a heat pad isn’t working for you, talk to your GP or midwife about alternatives. Gentle exercises and prenatal yoga may help with tension during pregnancy, or aquanatal classes (gentle exercise in water). A massage may also help, if it’s not too rough!
You may want to ask your local leisure centre about any maternity or physiotherapy services available. There are also things you can do, to help avoid tension in pregnancy:
- Change your position frequently, and stay active with gentle exercises
- Delegate physical tasks to friends or family, especially lifting or housework
- Keep a good posture when standing or sitting – using pillows if needed
- Wear supportive shoes and rest as frequently as you need during the day
Sources & useful NHS articles:
https://www.esht.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/0832.pdf
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/back-pain/
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/pelvic-pain/
https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/stomach-pain