Whether you’re on your period or just dealing with some pain, a heating pad is an easy and effective way to relieve cramps.
Heat increases circulation and relaxes tense muscles. Using a heating pad can help to ease cramps, but be careful not to use it too long.
1. Microwavable
Heating pads are an effective way to relieve menstrual cramps. They can be a great alternative to pain medications and are backed by scientific research.
A 2018 study found that heat reduces the severity of menstrual cramps and increases blood flow to the area, which can help ease pain. It also relaxes the muscles of your lower abdomen and reduces uterine contractions that cause painful cramps, according to Ana G. Cepin, MD, assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Columbia University in New York.
When you’re shopping for a heating pad, look for features that will make it easier to use and more comfortable. Some heating pads have adjustable temperature settings and massage settings, making it easy to find the perfect setting for your needs. Some have a timer, auto shut-off or both, so you can control when and how long you’re using it.
Another great feature is a reversible design, which allows you to switch between dry or moist heat. Moist heat penetrates deeper, which helps release the trapped muscles that contribute to cramping.
You might have to wait a bit for the heating pad to reach the desired temperature, but it’s worth it. Most microwavable options are made from plastic, but you can also purchase flannel or polyester materials if you prefer softer fabric.
The best microwave heating pads are made with high-quality material and designed by top professionals to meet your needs. This means they will last longer and be more durable.
It’s also important to choose a quality brand, which will provide the product with good customer service and warranty coverage. The company may offer a free return or exchange policy to ensure that you receive the best value from your investment.
You’ll also want to consider the size and shape of the heating pad, since these can impact how effective it is. Some are smaller and more specific to the cramps you’re experiencing, while others are larger and cover a wider surface of your body for days when you have back pain or sore muscles. The material should be soft and flexible to allow it to be comfortably placed on your skin.
2. Cordless
For many women, period cramps are one of the most unpleasant side effects of their monthly cycle. They can make it difficult to move around and even sit down, making them a serious barrier to living life normally.
Thankfully, there are a variety of home remedies to help ease the pain and discomfort of period cramps. One of the most popular and effective is a heating pad. These devices heat up quickly and provide direct relief from the pain.
You can get these pads in a variety of sizes, so you should find one that fits the area of your body where you’re experiencing cramping. For example, if your cramps are affecting your lower back and thighs, you should look for a pad that covers these areas.
This large heating pad from Sunbeam can be used on the abdomen or anywhere else that’s painful, and the convenient belt fastens it in place. It’s rated to last for up to four hours on a single charge, and it has three heat settings that adjust within 30 seconds.
The only drawback of this cordless heating pad is that it doesn’t have an automatic shut off timer, so it could burn if you’re using it for a long time without stopping. Fortunately, it also isn’t too hot, according to one tester, so it can be a good choice for those who prefer not to have a heating pad with an automatic shut-off feature.
Another option is a water bottle heating pad, which doesn’t require electricity. It can be filled with hot water and used as a heating pad or an ice compress for injury or swelling.
A water bottle heating pad is a great choice if you’re traveling or won’t have access to an outlet. You can fill it with hot water to two-thirds of its capacity, secure the lid and then place it on the painful area of your body for immediate relief.
The Latumab heating pad is one of our top picks because it uses graphene heating to create high heat quickly and soothe the muscles that irritate period cramps. It also offers a choice of heat and vibration settings, so you can customize your experience to suit your preferences.
3. Weighted
When it comes to dealing with cramps, there are few things as effective as a heating pad. Heat can relax the muscles that cause cramping, as well as increase blood flow to the affected area.
The best heating pads for period cramps come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so make sure to choose one that is suited to your needs. Some heating pads are designed primarily for use around the neck and shoulder, while others are large enough to cover larger areas of the body.
Weighted heating pads are also an effective way to reduce pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, injuries, or chronic conditions. However, not all weighted heating pads are created equal, and you should always read the product’s label to see if it uses BPA-free materials or features an auto-shutoff feature.
If you’re looking for a heating pad with an added benefit, you may want to consider investing in a model that doubles as a massager. The WOOMER Weighted Heating Pad with Massager delivers on this promise, delivering both heat therapy and a therapeutic massage in one generously sized blanket.
Its flannel fabric feels soft against the skin, and its options for vibrating massage and weighted pressure add to the comprehensive feel of this product. It has three heat settings and nine vibration levels, and it’s a great option for those who need more pressure than an ordinary weighted heating pad can offer.
In addition, this model has a built-in two-hour automatic shut-off feature to prevent burns if it’s left on too long. But you should be sure to remove it when you’re done, as prolonged or repeated use of heating pads can cause skin damage and worsen inflammation.
Another great option for those looking to reduce pain is the Pure Relief XL Extra-Long Back & Neck Heating Pad, which wraps around your shoulders and provides relief from upper back and shoulder tension. It’s a slightly pricier pick, but it’s worth the investment for the convenience and comfort it brings.
The FEETMOR Cordless Heating Pad is an outstanding choice for abdominal or back relief, and especially period cramps. It’s powered by a battery, so it’s small yet powerful, and is perfect for on-the-go use.
4. Electric
An electric heating pad for cramps can be a lifesaver. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials and are designed to give women pain relief during their period. They can also be used for other pain conditions, including back pain and stiff necks.
They work by generating heat that causes the blood vessels to dilate and increase blood flow to the area where you need relief. This can help relax the muscles that cause cramps, according to Iris Kerin Orbuch, M.D., director of the Advanced Gynecologic Laparoscopy Center at Providence Saint John’s Hospital in Los Angeles.
But if you’re going to use an electric heating pad, you need to make sure you know how to use it safely and correctly. For starters, you don’t want to place it directly on your skin because that can cause burns. Instead, wrap it in a towel or sheet so that the temperature of the pad doesn’t directly touch your skin. You can also try placing it on top of your clothes, but you may have to adjust the temperature depending on what you’re wearing.
Another consideration is what type of heat your pad produces, says Dr. Raineri. She recommends looking for a product with a range of temperatures so you can gradually increase the temperature as needed to find the best level for your pain.
It’s important to choose a heating pad with an automatic shut-off feature, too. This helps prevent the unit from overheating, which can cause burns and other health problems.
Regardless of which type you choose, it’s important to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before using your pad. Some products will have a built-in battery, while others are connected to a cord that requires plugging into an outlet. This means you can’t move around too much while you’re using them, so be sure to find a pad that fits with your lifestyle and needs.
You’ll need to decide if you want a pad that will cover your entire body or one that targets a particular spot, such as your lower belly or back. Then, you’ll need to consider how long it will take for the pad to heat up and whether or not the pad has additional features, such as timers or auto shut-off settings.