Why Pregnant Women Should Not Use Heating Pads

Why Pregnant Women Should Not Use Heating Pads
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You may use heating pads to relieve muscle or joint pain when pregnant, as long as they do not increase the woman's body temperature too high.

Since obstetricians and midwives regularly advise against using hot tubs during pregnancy, it is understandable that women can be concerned with other heat sources during pregnancy, such as heating pads.

Many women feel back and stomach pain during the third trimester, when ligaments change and the uterus's weight rises. It is generally safe to use a heating pad for short periods, and it may be safer than other pain relievers like ibuprofen.

This post will address whether it is safe to use a heating pad when women can use it and the advantages and costs. We also look at other forms of pain medication that women can use while pregnant.


Heating pads for pregnant?

Is it safe to use a heating pad when pregnant?

Some pregnant women are concerned with using heating pads since a high body temperature will affect the growing baby. When a woman's body temperature rises, the baby's temperature will rise as well. Temperatures that rise significantly will cause congenital disabilities.

A heating pad should be comfortable to use as long as it does not increase the woman's core body temperature. People should stop using heating pads at night or while sleeping, so they do not detect temperature changes. Consider using a heating pad for short bursts of 10 minutes or less.

Heating pads are related to hot tubs during early labor to neural tube defects in a 2011 study. The neural tube is the mechanism that ultimately gives birth to the brain and spinal cord; any disruption to the neural tube will result in brain damage and other significant complications. The study discovered that using hot tubs daily was particularly risky.

While no recent major trials have specifically evaluated the protection of heating pads during pregnancy, they are unlikely to increase a person's core body temperature and are a normal part of pregnancy pain relief.

According to a 2013 report, incorporating multiple therapies at once, such as aerobic exercise, heating pads, and chiropractic care, helped pain relief. The study found no adverse effects from using heating pads.

Many women are worried about putting a hot pad on their stomach or back, which are general discomfort places.

There is no indication that using heating pads on the abdomen or back for short amounts of time is detrimental. Low heat is also used by physicians for back, shoulder, or pelvic discomfort. However, before applying heat to the stomach or back, always check with a doctor.

To reduce any possible threats to the developing baby, follow these steps:

  1. Use heating pads sparingly during the first trimester since this is the riskiest period to increase the body temperature.
  2. Stop using a heating pad if it makes you feel too sticky, overheated, or induces sweating.
  3. Apply the heating pad for no more than 10 minutes.
  4. Avoid using the heating pad if the baby's behavior varies, such as increased or decreased activity.
  5. Avoid using several heat sources. E.g., do not use a hairdryer and a heating pad simultaneously because it makes controlling the heat more difficult and makes it more difficult for the body to cool down.
  6. To ease the pressure, avoid using a hot tub, sauna, or scorching shower.
  7. It would be best to use a heating pad until a healthcare provider has permitted them.

Final Thoughts

Since any pregnancy is unique, everyone worried about using heat to ease discomfort should consult with a doctor or midwife first. Other risk factors can render a heating pad dangerous for some women. However, in most cases, a heating pad provides healthy, immediate relief from the aches and pains that come with pregnancy.

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