Are Wheat Bags (Heat Packs) Good For Period Pain Relief?
September 08 2023
Menstrual cramps are no joke. Period pain affects up to 90% of us women and this pain can range from annoying to extremely painful. So, you may be looking online for a way to relieve period pain that works for you. This may include more natural approaches to pain relief.
The NHS states that you may have period pain if:
- you have pain in your tummy at the start of your period, or several days before your period
- you have painful cramps in your tummy that spread to your back and thighs
- you have a sharp pain or a dull ache in your tummy
Period pain usually lasts for up to 3 days and can affect your daily activities.
Does a heating pad work for menstrual cramps?
Yes, a heat pad works for menstrual cramps. Wheat bags or 'heat packs' are an easy to use and reusable home remedy for period pain relief. They're a comfortable and natural way to help support you during the times when you're doubled over.
We would recommended using conventional methods of pain relief, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, alongside your wheat bag for maximum pain relief benefits.
How long can I use a heating pad for cramps?
Wheat bags can last for up to an hour. Short durations, about 15 to 20 minutes, will work well for minor cramps, while longer durations for up to 30 minutes, may work best for you if you suffer from more excruciating cramps. It's never recommended to sleep with a heating pad.
How to safely use a heating pad for menstrual cramps
Wheat bags are perfectly safe and can bring relief when heated properly. As with any product involving heat, there is a danger of fire and a risk of injury to you if used improperly.
Reusable wheat bags for menstrual pain
Importantly, the heat from a wheat bag will help to relax your muscles that are cramping. You can keep reusing your wheat bag and applying this heat to your tummy or lower back to help relieve your menstrual pain.
Can heat help bring on a period?
The heat from a wheat bag or heating pad will increase blood flow to your pelvis and uterus but no, it won't bring your period on any sooner. Although, your wheat bag will help soothe menstrual cramps!
Does a heat pad increase menstrual flow?
No, a heat pad doesn't increase menstrual flow. During Summer, when the weather is hot and humid, your periods may become longer or more frequent. But the localised heat from a heating pad won't bring your period on any sooner.
A self-care item every woman needs
Simply pop your wheat bag into a microwave for the recommended amount of time and place it over your clothing on where it hurts most.
Read - How long to do you heat a wheat bag in the microwave?