Adding heat therapy to your pain-relieving regimen can help ease menstrual cramps. However, not all heating pads are created equal.
The best heating pad for cramps will have multiple settings and come with a timer. It should also be easy to clean. It should have a long power cord, too, so you can use it anywhere.
Size
A good heating pad for cramps should be large enough to comfortably cover the affected area. A size of 12 inches by 24 inches is ideal, though some models are even bigger. Some are even designed to wrap around your waist, making them perfect for PMS-related back pain and abdominal cramps. Some are also small enough to slip into your handbag for a quick fix on the go.
Some heating pads for cramps come with a remote control, so you can adjust the temperature and other settings as needed. This one, for example, has three heat settings and also comes with a timer that shuts off after two hours. It has a soft micro plush interior that contours to the body for added comfort, and it also comes with a convenient storage bag. It’s machine washable, too.
Another great option is this heating pad from Sunbeam, which offers three heat settings and a plethora of other options, like vibration modes and a nightlight. It’s portable, as well, since it has a built-in USB port and rechargeable battery. It can also be used as a cold press for pain relief on the go, as well.
The cute design of this heating pad for cramps might be the clincher. It’s shaped like a kidney bean, and reviewers say it’s fun to use while relieving the discomfort of period cramps. You can heat it in the microwave for quick relief or throw it in the freezer to apply cold pressure to the area. It’s machine washable, too, and it also has a nice aroma.
This heating pad for cramps is designed to be used on the abdomen or lower back, and it’s available in a range of colors to suit your style. It’s made of an anti-bacterial cotton blend and has a moisture-wicking layer that draws sweat away from the skin, keeping it dry and comfortable. It also has a timer and an auto-shutoff function, as well as a pouch for easy carrying. It’s not designed to be a deep-heat massager, though, so if you’re looking for that kind of relief, you might want to look elsewhere.
Material
The material that the heating pad is made out of can have a huge impact on how quickly it heats up and how comfortable it is to hold. Choosing a soft, plush fabric that feels good against the skin is essential for comfort. You also want to make sure that the pad is able to withstand repeated use and not be too flimsy, since it could potentially become a fire hazard or cause burns.
Some people prefer a natural material like cotton, while others may favor something more modern and technologically advanced. You can find a variety of different types of materials and features for heating pads, from far-infrared to microwavable. Some also have different heat settings for a range of temperatures and are designed with extra padding for optimal comfort.
If you want a little more than just heat therapy for your menstrual cramps, consider this model from Sacksy Thyme that’s packed with flaxseed for hydration and to improve circulation around the abdomen. This pad also has a vibration feature to relax the muscles, which is especially helpful for women who suffer from back pain with their period.
This pad is rechargeable and has three different heat settings, as well as an auto-shutoff timer that can be adjusted to your preference. It is also portable and has a soft, form-fitting design for hands-free use. It is a little heavier than some of the other models we’ve tested, but it still can be used while you move around the house without having to stay plugged in.
During testing, this heating pad reached its highest temperature in about one to two minutes, which was fast for the heat it provides. It is also very durable and is made out of an anti-odor material.
Many women struggle with painful periods each month, but there is hope. Menstrual cramps can be relieved with a simple heating pad. Heat therapy increases blood flow to the uterus, which can relax the knotted muscles and ease the pain. The results of several studies have shown that this treatment is effective in helping alleviate menstrual cramps.
Temperature
When it comes to relieving menstrual cramps, heat therapy is an old-fashioned comfort that has stood the test of time. Heat increases blood flow to the uterus, which helps relax cramped muscles and reduce pain. Whether you prefer dry or moist heat, this electric heating pad offers six different settings and an ergonomic LCD remote. It’s also available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, and the plush fabric feels soothing on your skin. It’s designed to be machine washable, too.
A few precautions should be taken when using a heating pad during your period. Women should avoid placing the pad directly on the uterus or abdomen, and they shouldn’t use it for more than 20 minutes at a time to prevent overheating and skin damage. Pregnant women should also consult their OB/GYN before using any heat therapy products, including heating pads and patches.
Some people like to combine heating pads with other remedies for menstrual cramps, such as over-the-counter pain relievers and a warm bath with Epsom salts. These pain relievers work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are responsible for the pain associated with periods. Likewise, massaging your stomach in circular motions with essential oils can ease your discomfort by stimulating circulation and reducing inflammation.
In addition to these home remedies, many people find relief from menstrual cramps by taking a hot shower or sitting in a warm bath. Some even recommend sprinkling a bit of epsom salts in the tub to soothe the backaches that often accompany the menstrual period.
Whether you want to relax in a hot bath or enjoy a soothing massage, this portable heating pad is a great choice. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket and features an adjustable velcro strap for secure placement. This product is also easy to clean and dries quickly. It also comes with a built-in timer, so you can set it to shut off after two hours.
While the best heating pad for cramps will vary from person to person, this one is highly rated by users for its speedy heat-up and versatile functions. It also has a rechargeable battery, so you can use it anywhere you have access to an electrical outlet.
Safety
Menstrual cramps can be uncomfortable enough to keep you from doing the things you love. You can get relief from them with a heating pad that soothes your muscles while you relax.
The heat from a heating pad can ease period pain by relaxing the muscles in your lower abdomen, back and thighs. This is because these muscles contract to help shed your uterus lining each month. Heat therapy also can help relieve pain by increasing blood flow to those areas.
When shopping for a heating pad, look for one that has a timer and auto shutoff to ensure your safety. You should also check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you use it correctly. Using it incorrectly can lead to injury or damage the product, as well as void its warranty.
In addition to a heating pad, you can try other home remedies to help reduce the pain associated with your period. You can massage your stomach and lower back with an oil, apply a cold pack or take over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers. Getting some exercise can also help relieve the pain of your cramps. Light exercise like walking or yoga can increase your endorphins, which are natural chemicals in your brain that provide a natural way to deal with pain.
If you have a sensitive stomach, look for a heating pad made with cotton to prevent irritation. There are many different sizes and types of heating pads available, so choose the size that is best for you. For example, if you are a runner, consider using a portable running heating pad that is designed to move with you.
Using a heating pad can be dangerous if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It can cause burns if you touch it directly or place it too close to your skin, and you should never sleep with a heated pad. It is also important to keep your heating pad away from children and pets, as they can accidentally damage or burn themselves.
In addition to a heating pad, you could try making your own dry heat treatment. For example, you could wrap a wet towel in a dryer sheet and warm it in the microwave or an oven. You could also try a homemade version of the popular “uterus-shaped” heating pad.