How to Use Heating Pads When Pregnant

Pregnancy can cause a variety of aches and pains. Aching back, cramping stomach and sore legs are just a few of the symptoms a woman may experience. Relieve sore muscles with a heating pad. If used properly during pregnancy, heating pads are safe for both mother and child. Take precautions, however, to ensure that the heating pad is used appropriately.

Instructions

1. Use the heating pad on the lowest setting. Skin is more sensitive during pregnancy and may burn if a higher setting is used.

2. Only use the heating pad for one hour or less to avoid raising your core body temperature. A pregnant woman should keep her core body temperature below 102.2 degrees to prevent risk of neural tube defects.

3. Do not place the heating pad on your abdomen. It is still unclear what harm this may cause the fetus.

4. Do not fall asleep with a heating pad on your body. Many heating pads come with a timer. Program the heating pad to shut off after one hour.

References

• Just Mommies
• Women's Health
• Baby Center