There is no doubt that pregnancy can be an uncomfortable time. Aside from the occasional bought of nausea, dizziness and fatigue, muscle pain can also be a problem. As you gain weight and your growing belly puts more stress on your body, sore muscles are to be expected. MayoClinic.com explains that while a warm bath or gentle massage can help, a heating pad can also apply targeted relief to the affected muscles.
Step 1
Inspect your heating pad before each use. If it shows signs of heavy wear or if you see evidence of fraying on the cord, discard it.
Step 2
Plug in your heating pad, and set the control switch or dial to the lowest heat setting. Always use the lowest setting during pregnancy, according to the Ohio State University Medical Center.
Step 3
Lay the heating pad over the area of your pregnant body that is causing you discomfort.
Step 4
Leave your heating pad in place until you feel a sense of relief, which should be no longer than 20 minutes at a time. Move your pad to another area that is causing you discomfort.
Step 5
Continue to move your heating pad from location to location, allowing it to soothe the area for 20-minute intervals.
Step 6
Unplug your heating pad after use.
