13 Best Heating Pads To Make Your Menstrual Cramps Bearable (2024)
Calm your cramped-up muscles and reduce severe pains on your period days with the magic pads.
Dr. Swati Chitnis is a gynecologist and endoscopic surgeon with over 8 years of extensive experience in high risk pregnancies with very low complication rates. She is an alumnus of BJ Medical College & Sassoon Hospital and King Edward Memorial Hospital.
Read full bio of Dr. Swati Chitnis
Experience: 5 yearsAditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
Read full bio of Aditi Naskar
Experience: 5 yearsMedha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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Experience: 3 yearsRajeshwari is a dedicated fitness and lifestyle enthusiast, deeply committed to enhancing our readers’ well-being and vitality. She has a master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from the University of Calcutta.
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Period cramps are that monster whom most women have to face every month. We all have different ways to deal with it, but using the best heating pad for cramps is something that works for most women.
Heating pads for cramps help to relax the uterine muscles that cause menstrual cramps. These pads have thermal settings that you can personalize for your own comfort. Heating pads let you manage and provides menstrual pain relief and the discomfort associated with them quickly.
The market is full of heating pads of different kinds. To help you choose the best one for yourself, we have compiled a list of the best heating pads for cramps. So, go ahead and check them out now!
In This Article
Electric Heating pads Vs. Heat Wraps – What Is Better For Cramps?
Heat wraps are malleable and easy to use but are no match for an electric heating pad. These electric pads stay warm for a longer duration, and when they get cold, you can always reheat them with the press of a button. They are also available with moist heat and vibration massage that help with quicker relief over a longer period.
With these benefits, electric heating pads are a better alternative for cramp management and provide a better user experience. Let us now check the best heating pads for relieving menstrual cramps.
13 Best Heating Pads For Menstrual Cramps
1. Best Overall: Aroma Season Heating Pad
The Aroma Season Heating Pad has a 7.4V 3000mAh battery, which allows it to run for 6 hours. It has three heat settings ranging from 104°F to 140°F and can be easily adjusted with the press of a button. It also has an auto-shut-off feature. This heating pad is ideal for treating menstrual cramps, stomachaches, and other problems in the abdominal region because of its sustained heat treatment. It has a rechargeable battery, flexible fabric, a velcro fastening for a custom fit, and a comfortable, form-fitting design for hands-free usage.
- Stretchable
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Auto power-off
- Soft fabric
- Machine-washable
None
2. Best Comfortable Fabric:GENIANI XL Heating Pad
The GENIANI XL Heating Pad sends a stream of heat to the problematic region to relieve back pain and unbearable menstrual cramps. It only takes 30 seconds for the heating pad to warm up, so you can enjoy the calming heat immediately after using it. The electric heating pad provides steady and stable heat for long periods for a better user experience. There are three different temperature settings- low, medium, and high that you can choose as per your comfort. The heating pad’s micro plush exterior contours your body for a snug, comfortable fit.
- Adjustable temperature settings
- Fast heating technology
- Fast heating
- Super soft fabric
- Lightweight
- Auto shut-off feature
- Continuous heat for a long time
None
3. Best Under $25: Medical King Large Electric Heating Pad
This large electric heating pad from Medical King is touted as a quick-relief heating pad. It relieves cramps, sore spots, and muscle stiffness. Its auto-off timer turns off the pad after two hours of continuous use. The plush fabric is gentle on the skin and suitable for machine wash. Many customers have left glowing reviews for its adequate size, convenient timer feature, and additional heating option.
- Skin-friendly fabric
- Maintains consistent heat
- Value for money
- Timer options
- Comes with a warranty
- Auto shut-off feature
- Machine-washable
None
CautionStore the heating pad straight in shape instead of folding it to prevent damaging the internal wires inside the pad.
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has received 912 positive Amazon reviews from its users, stating its numerous benefits.
Aroma Season Heating Pad Best Overall | GENIANI XL Heating Pad Best Comfortable Fabric | Medical King Large Electric Heating Pad Best Under $25 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Color | Black | Tabby Gray | Red, White |
| Material | Fabric | Microplush | Microplush |
| Dimensions | - | 12.09 x 5.39 x 3.31 inches | 24 x 12 x 1 inches. |
| Weight | - | 1.32 Pounds | - |
| Weight | - | - | 15.84 Ounces |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 239 | 10,309 | 912 |
| Price | $28.99 | $21.97 | $19.95 |
4. Best Cordless Design:Slimpal Menstrual Heating Pad
The Slimpal Menstrual Heating Pad is equipped with a graphene thermal chip and far infrared technology. This wireless electric heating pad heats up in a few seconds and provides safe and stable heat to the body. It has NTC sensor regulation, which helps it function constantly and safely, without shutting off every 30 minutes. There are three vibration settings, four heating options, and a heat cycle ranging from 104°F to 140°F. This heating pad is rechargeable, has a long run time (up to 7 hours), is compact, and is travel-friendly. The massaging heating pad’s elastic belt is fully adjustable to accommodate waist sizes between 24 and 52 inches covered in a plush velvet fabric that feels great on the skin.
- Relieves pain and cramps
- Safe and reliable
- Improves circulation
- Better fit and comfort
- Lightweight
- Portable
- Long-lasting
None
5. Best For Heat Therapy: Sacksy Thyme Microwavable Hot Pack
The Sacksy Thyme microwavable heat pack is great for those knotted spots around the abdomen that can elevate pain. This double-sided heating pad has fleece on one side and cotton on the other. It allows you to choose between moist or dry heat for optimal comfort. This flaxseed filler pad is ideal for improving circulation to the affected area for better pain relief. Plus, it is free from herbal scents and essential oils, and is suitable for people with a sensitive nose.
- Premium soft material
- Double-sided use
- Unscented
- Comes with 12-month warranty
- Poor stitching
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received over 705 rave reviews on Amazon, proving it is a mass favorite.
6. Best Infrared: UTK Far Infrared Natural Jade and Tourmaline Heating Pad
Relax your knotted muscles with the UTK Far Infrared heating pad. It is crafted from natural jade and tourmaline stones. It delivers balanced negative ions for activating deep relaxation within the body and soothing pain. Its carbon fiber body emits infrared rays to target deep tissue and bring down pain and stiffness, giving a therapeutic heat therapy. Plus, the controller features an auto shut-off and memory function to ensure it is easy to be used by the elderly. Learn more about the product in this video that also details a tester’s experience of using it.
- Far infrared therapy
- Has natural jade and tourmaline
- Deep penetrating heat
- Targeted pain relief
- Therapeutic benefits
- Auto shut-off feature
- Travel bag included
- Expensive
Pro TipAvoid wearing the heating pad directly on the skin; always have some clothing on to prevent any skin injury.
7. Best Portable:Comfier Heating Pad Wrap Belt
The Comfier Heating Pad Wrap Belt with massage helps alleviate tiredness and aching muscles while providing a relaxing massage. This waist belt has a built-in heating pad that heats up quickly. The safety shut-off feature on the heating pad eliminates any risk of overheating. The heated waist wrap includes four strong massage motors to relax. When used in conjunction with moderate heat therapy, it is very effective for soothing tight muscles. With eight different massage modes and four ranges of intensity, you can pick a mode to get the highest level of massage comfort. This heated massage belt is versatile, with an adjustable strap that extends to a maximum of 62 inches to accommodate all sizes.
- Build in heating pad
- 2 adjustable heating level available
- Overheating protection system
- Auto shut-off feature
- Flexible fit
- Portable
- Easy to use
None
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
This product has garnered over 2,423 positive reviews on Amazon, and the number continues to grow.
8. Best Lightweight:Yeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad
The Yeamon Portable Cordless Heating Pad is a strong and efficient heating pad that helps reduce cramp discomfort. The heating belt can be adjusted to your chosen temperature and massage intensity, to help you finally put an end to those excruciating cramps. This electric heating pad comes with a graphene heating sheet with an excellent thermal conductivity that can immediately produce heat once the gadget is switched on. The back of the heating pad has a soft and smooth touch surface, which makes you comfortable and evenly disperses heat. It has an adjustable waistband that fits the waist up to 50”.
- Portable
- Cordless design
- Velvety fabric
- Sustainable design
- Lightweight
- Comfortable and soft fabric
None
9. Best Heating Patch: MenstruHeat Women Heat Pad
MenstruHeat is a trusted companion for women dealing with severe period pain. These heat pads are natural and completely non-intrusive. Women can go about their day wearing these on for a convenient and long-lasting heat supply. The ergonomic design supports the contours of your stomach and gets to the stiff areas on the side. It is, hands down, an amazing option for women to help combat their cramps at any time of the day.
- Compact and convenient
- Ergonomic design
- Long-lasting heat
- Non-intrusive
- Effective on-the-go pad
None
Quick TipRemove the heat pad for five minutes after each hour of usage to let your skin breathe for a while, preventing skin injury like burning.
10. Best With Warranty: Mighty Bliss Extra Large Heating Pad
The Mighty Bliss extra large heating pad is just the partner you need during your crusade against pain. The pad is super sturdy and incredibly soft. It is a good old giant heating device with great heat output. Its large size makes it versatile enough for all the sore muscle groups that need quick relief. Personalized heat settings and an option to use the moist heat method can reliably deliver deep heat that penetrates the skin for better pain relief and deep tissue repair. The two hour shut-off feature works for improving your experience with this brilliant heating pad. This video gives you more information and practical insights about the product from the hands-on experience of the reviewer.
- Moist heat option
- Quick pain relief
- Custom heat modes
- Good heat output
- ETL certification
- Auto shut-off feature
- Comes with lifetime warranty
- May not work on pinpoint areas of pain
11. My Heating Pad
The My Heating pad is a conveniently sized heat pack for melting away all that muscle tension we build up in our bodies. It is suitable for both hot and cold therapy. The dual-sided heat bag comes with a fleece side and a cotton side. Both the sides can be alternatively used during heat therapy for pain relief. This portable pack is a great natural alternative over the electric variants. Choose from an unscented, plain rice and flaxseed version if you are sensitive to scents.
- Flexible design
- Soft and comfortable
- Natural moist heat
- Ideal size
- Needs frequent reheating
12. Pure Enrichment Purerelief XL Heating Pad
Pure Enrichment Purerelief XL Heating Pad is a rapid-heating pad with six temperature settings with its ergonomic LCD remote. The heat settings range from 105°F to 140°F with a greater wattage that enables it to warm up in seconds, relieving cramps in a jiffy. Use it dry or wet for dry or moist heat treatment, this extra-large heating pad can do it all. The heating pad is made from a delicate, machine-washable micro plush fabric that is soothing on bare skin and provides the highest level of comfort for extended usage. The 9-foot chord gives you plenty of room to move about.
- InstaHeat technology
- Large heating surface
- Ultra-comfortable fabric
- Lightweight
- Auto shut-off feature
- Sustainable design
- Suitable for hot and cold therapy
None
13. Comfytemp Electric Heating Pad
The Comfytemp Electric Heating Pad may help relieve shoulder, leg, knee, joint, cramp, menstruation, and lower back discomfort, as well as increase blood flow and relax muscles. The stay-on feature of this heating pad ensures you have access to comforting warmth at any time. It’s simple to use, and you get the ideal temperature with the compact heating pad’s three heat settings and two-hour auto-off. The 12″ by 24″ dimension is versatile and easy to maneuver over any body area, allowing for more effective heat treatment and providing more localized, personalized comfort. The ultra-plush flannel construction of the heating pad makes it ideal for prolonged usage.
- Auto shut off feature
- Stay on function
- Provides muscle relaxation
- Moist heat therapy
- Reusable and washable cover
- Easy to operate
- Soft and comfortable
- Hands-free application
- Could be too small for some
A heating pad has been the go-to pain management solution for most women to alleviate menstrual cramps. But how do these pads help in pain management?
How Does Heat Help With Cramps?
Heat relieves pain and relaxes the knotted muscles while improving the blood flow around the uterus. Applying a heating pad helps dilate the blood vessels and directs more oxygen-rich blood to the site of pain. The muscles of the uterus and abdomen are relaxed, and are no longer prone to prolonged contractions (that are the cause of painful cramps).
Placing the heat pad on the lower abdomen provides optimal comfort. Let us learn more about it in the next section.
Where Do I Place A Heat Pack For Cramps?
It should be placed on your lower abdomen to help your uterine muscles relax and ease the cramping. Do not place it directly over your skin as it may cause burns.
Heating pads help in managing pain, but how long should you expose yourself to heat?
How Long Should I Use A Heating Pad To Relieve Cramps?
Ideally, using a heating pad on a low heat setting for 20-30 minutes at a stretch is safe for your body. Excessive heat exposure can cause first or second-degree burns.
Here are some other popular methods to relieve period cramps.
Ways To Deal With Period Cramps
1. Over-The-Counter Pain Relievers: These work to soften the pain that comes with periods by affecting the release of prostaglandins – the hormones related to the breakdown of the cells in the uterus.
2. Soak In A Warm Bath With Salts: A warm bath with some Epsom salts helps keep the cramps under control and works well to soothe your body.
3. Essential Oils: Massaging your abdomen in circular motions with essential oils is an age-old remedy that is believed to help. Oils like lavender, rosemary, peppermint, and cinnamon help boost circulation and relieve pain.
Dr. Swati Chitnis, an Obstetrics and Gynecology expert, states, “Low impact exercises like yoga can also help relax muscles and relieve pain.”
Since you are planning to buy heating pads, here are some essential pointers that can help you purchase the right product.
Factors To Consider Before Buying Heating Pads
1. Size: Heating pads range from smaller, more compact, snug fits like belts and patches to bigger plush-fabric heating devices. One can pick from the size option that best fits their comfort and suits their needs. For more portable and discreet heating, patches and belts are a better choice.
2. Durability: Always look for heating pads that are not too flimsy and have a good sturdy build quality. The cord or the batteries of the pad should be of an equally reliable build for your safety and the product’s longevity. The heating mechanism should have a consistent heat supply over an uninterrupted period and should come with a warranty/guarantee period for repairs or replacement.
3. Thermal Conditions: Consider the type of heating mechanism employed. Some products have far-infrared heating for deep muscle penetration, and others have rice and flaxseed filling for more natural healing. Options like coiled wires and battery-powered heat are also some popular picks. Choose what works best for you. Heat settings for temperature control must also be considered before making a purchase.
4. Materials: Materials like microfibers and natural cotton provide ample insulation and heat delivery, making them suitable for heat therapy. You can use a cotton pad for moist heat, while plush, velvety fabrics are good buffers for dry heat therapy. Narrow down on the material that you ideally need your heating pad in.
Infographic: Tips To Use Heating Pads For Period Cramps
Heating pads help provide relief, whether it is a dull pain or a sharp ache during your periods. The heat helps relax the myometrium and the restricted blood vessels, reducing painful contractions. While selecting a heating pad is a personal choice, you must be careful while exposing your body to heat. Check out the infographic below for some tips to use heating pads for period cramps. Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team
The Bottom Line
Period cramps can ruin your day and keep you from being productive. The best heating pads for cramps serve as a great solution to this problem by providing drug-free pain relief. Their heat settings are customizable and reduce the discomfort caused by cramps. If you are into aromatherapy, the Aroma Season Heating Pad is a reliable option with targeted heat therapy and the added benefit of lavender aromatherapy. The GENIANI XL Heating Pad comes in various sizes and offers multiple heat settings, while the UTK Far Infrared Natural Jade and Tourmaline Heating Pad has an innovative far-infrared technology to relieve muscle soreness from deep within. The products mentioned in our list have timer settings and ergonomic power cords for easy handling. Some of these heating pads are made of skin-friendly fiber, preventing irritation on sensitive skin. They have velvety soft materials to keep you comfortable during those painful days. However, you might want to avoid heating pads that require frequent charging.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
The author of this article, Aditi Naskar, holds a diploma in health and wellness. She has curated this list of the best heating pads for cramps. She has scrolled through reviews from other customers and recommended those products for this list. These pads are budget-friendly, have soft fabric, and are adjustable to your comfort and needs. Not only are these heating pads lightweight and provide maximum relief with their fast heating features, but they’re also quite affordable and some of them are travel-friendly too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are heating pads safe for cramps?
Yes. Heating pads relax knotted muscles, ease the blood flow around the uterus, and relieve pain. However, avoid using the heating pads for a long time to prevent irritating your skin and aggravating the pain.
Do heating pads make you bleed more?
No. Heating pads dilate blood vessels, relax the muscles, and improve blood flow, while significantly reducing cramps.
Can you use a heating pad too much?
No. Do not use a heating pad for more than 30 minutes to avoid skin damage and burns. Using a pad for too long increases inflammation.
Are heating pads good for you?
Yes. If you are experiencing severe muscle pain, joint immobility, and period cramps, heating pads are your go-to product.
Does a heating pad help the period end faster?
No. Heating pads improve blood flow and relieve pain, but are ineffective in ending the period cycle before its due time.
Can you sleep with a heating pad on?
No. Do not sleep with a heating pad to avoid burns and severe pain. Excessive exposure to heat deteriorates the muscle condition and weakens your joints.
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