Blogging Pregnancy

I Used A Heating Pad Last Night … Is this ok?

Relieving Pain and Discomfort

During pregnancy you are likely to experience many discomforts including back pain, aching and muscle soreness. Fortunately you can usually use a heating pad during pregnancy to help relieve sore muscles.

You should however, take some precautions when applying heat to various areas of your body. Typically a heating pad will only heat up a specific area in your body. Because it does not increase your overall body temperature, you can usually use one safely during pregnancy. You want to be sure however, you don’t use a heating pad that is too hot or it may burn your sensitive skin.

It is very unlikely that using a heating pad would cause any undue stress to your baby. This is particularly the case if you use the heating pad on your back, legs or arms. You might consider using an ice pack if you experienced some form of injury, as this may work better to help decrease swelling. If you have muscle discomfort in your abdomen you should consult with your health care provider to rule out any serious problems and discuss a suitable course of treatment.

Other Tips For Soothing Sore Muscles and Backaches During Pregnancy
There are several other strategies you can use to improve your comfort during pregnancy. Some women find wearing a maternity belt during pregnancy helps decrease abdominal discomfort and backaches during pregnancy. A maternity belt may also be useful if you have to engage in any vigorous activities during your pregnancy (though this isn’t recommended).

You might also consider a prenatal yoga class during pregnancy. There are many yoga positions that help improve muscle discomfort, help stretch out ligaments and help improve your overall health and wellness during pregnancy.

Even better news, most prenatal yoga classes can also be enjoyed after you give birth, sometimes even during the first six weeks after birth. This will help reduce much of the fatigue and soreness you experience before and after delivery.

Prevention of Cramps and Backache During Pregnancy
It is important you prevent backaches and muscle fatigue if possible during pregnancy. Working out regularly can help strengthen all the muscles and ligaments in your body reducing your risk of injury during pregnancy.

You want to be careful however, not to work out too hard, particularly during the last trimester of your pregnancy. During pregnancy your body releases a substance called relaxin that helps prepare your joints and ligaments for delivery. This hormone helps loosen up all the tissues in the body, making delivery easier but also increasing the chances you may accidentally injure yourself while exercising during pregnancy.

Help reduce your risk of injury by stretching before, during and after exercise. Also be sure to take plenty of rest breaks during physical activity and drink plenty of water. Drinking plenty of water is sometimes all that is necessary to help reduce muscle cramps during pregnancy.

If you are still experiencing discomfort, consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend extra measures including physical therapy or chiropractic care during pregnancy to help relieve your symptoms.