Is Heating pads safe during pregnancy?
OK on your back on a low setting for about 15 minutes at a time. Avoid heat that raises your whole-body temperature.
PregnancyUse with care
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
EvidenceLimited
What the sources say
Cleveland Clinic says it's OK to use a heating pad or hot water bottle on your lower back in pregnancy, but keep it on a low setting, limit use to about 15 minutes, and avoid heat high enough to raise your body temperature. Avoid using heat over medicated rubs (pain-rub labels warn against heating pads). MotherToBaby notes overheating does not appear to affect the ability to breastfeed.
Also listed as
heat pack, heat pad, heat wrap, heating pad, hot water bottle, microwavable heat pack, thermacare
Sources
- Cleveland Clinic: Back Pain During Pregnancy
- MotherToBaby: Fever/Hyperthermia
- NIH: DailyMed: Icy Hot Pain Relieving Stick, Balm and Cream label
Last reviewed . This is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or midwife about your own situation.