How To Use A Heating Pad For Cramps

All women can relate to the miserable suffering they go through at that time of the month. Yes, we are talking about periods! No amount of pain can be compared to that of menstruation. Menstrual cramps are completely normal for every woman every month. It might be triggering, overwhelming, frightful, and unbearable for some. How painful the cramps really are can vary from woman to woman.

Painkillers can be temporary rescuers, but for controlling unstoppable pain, a heating pad is a showstopper. Heating pads help in giving some amount of relief and relaxation from the cramps. Here is a guide on how to use a heating pad for menstrual cramps.

The Different Types Of Heating Pads For Cramps

Before we get to how to use heat patches for cramps, let’s have a look at the different types of heating pads you can use. 

1. Hot Water Bottles

There is nothing better than getting relief after putting a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel on the area where you are feeling the cramps. These cute, colorful pouches, like bags made from rubber, are an amazing way to cure your pain in an inexpensive way. It does not require any extra effort; all you need is just these bags and hot water. With the help of a hot water bag, you can get some much-needed relief from pain, causing it to become milder over a period of time.

2. Electric Heating Pads

If you feel that hot water bottles aren’t enough to get rid of the excruciating menstrual pain, then you can upgrade to electric heating pads. Most women prefer to use these electrical heating pads, which are great for giving warmth and relief to body parts that give you period pains. 

Electric heating pads come in various different colors and sizes with adjustable temperature settings. With cool features such as automatic operating options, the electric heating pad makes a great impression on women. It’s no surprise that they prefer electrical heating pads over other products. 

3. Portable Heating Pad And Patches

For long-lasting pain relief from period cramps, portable heating pads and patches are good options. These patches are way better for quicker relief from period cramps. What’s great about these patches is that you can move along with them without having to slouch on the couch. 

Both heating pads and patches can be recharged by using portable batteries. Another option available is microwaveable heating pads, which can be heated in a microwave. The warmth and comfort in the patches and heating pads help to reduce the pain, letting you function at ease.

Steps On How To Use A Heating Pad For Cramps

Read on to know more about how to use a heating pad for cramps.

Using It By Yourself

By following the instructions given on the packaging, you can start by placing the heating pad on the lower abdomen area, back area, or affected areas caused by menstruation. The heating pads come in a different variety and can be used according to your convenience. Thanks to these heating pads, your blood flow improves, resulting in overall relaxation of your body. 

Include Essential Oil Massages Before The Use Of Heating Pads

Why not make use of essential oils for a more relaxed feeling? Essential oils themselves are great agents for curing menstrual cramps. Start by massaging the lower abdomen, back area, or the affected area with essential oils. This will do 50% of the work in itself. In fact, it makes the process easier and then all you are left with is applying the heating pad, giving you twice the relief as that of using only one heating pad.

Adjust The Settings Accordingly

While using the heating pad, make sure you are well-versed with the settings of the heating pad. The heating pad can be dangerous if kept on the body for a long time, which can result in burning the skin. Make sure you’re using the optimal setting and temperature. The maximum time for keeping the heating pad on the body is 10 to 15 minutes.

Summing Up

Although using these techniques to relieve cramp pain may be beneficial in some way, don’t forget to stick to the basics. For instance, having simple and healthy foods, reducing the intake of caffeine and cold things, exercising regularly, and having a healthy lifestyle can help in balancing and improving excessive blood flow and pain.

FAQs

Does A Heating Pad Speed Up Your Period?

The answer is a big no! A heating pad is used to compress your pain, giving you a soothing effect and making you feel relaxed. There is no relationship between the heating pad helping with the monthly cycle as periods are natural.

Why Does Heat Feel Good On Cramps?

Heat relieves menstrual cramps by opening up the blood vessels, giving them a boost and smooth flow, and literally squeezing the pain size to a tolerable level. 

How Long Do Period Cramps Last?

A menstrual cramp can normally last up to 3 days, but in some cases it is known to go a little beyond that. The intensity of the cramps are generally higher in the first 48 hours or so. The symptoms during period cramps vary, such as fatigue, diarrhea, and vomiting.