Pregnancy can come with its fair share of aches and pains, and many women turn to over-the-counter pain relief products to ease their discomfort. One popular option is deep heat, an ointment or cream applied to the skin to provide warmth and relief for muscle and joint pain. But is it safe to use deep heat during pregnancy? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the use of deep heat in pregnancy and the potential risks.
Is Deep Heat Safe for Pregnant Women?
The answer is NO; deep heat is not safe for pregnant women. While there is limited research on deep heat during pregnancy, many experts advise pregnant women to avoid using deep heat due to the potential risks.
As with all medicinal products, use of deep heat during pregnancy or breast-feeding should be avoided unless considered necessary
Health Products Regulatory Authority
Deep heat contains menthol, which can be absorbed through the skin; menthol is a skin irritant and may cause allergic reactions. According to a study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, topical products containing menthol should be avoided during pregnancy as they may cause skin irritation, burning, or redness.
Can You Use Deep Heat Cream or Spray During Pregnancy?
Many experts advise pregnant women to avoid deep heat due to the potential risks. A pregnant woman’s skin is more sensitive than usual, and deep heat cream or spray may cause more irritation and discomfort.
Never take anti- inflammatory medication such as ibruprofen, nurofen, or deep heat during pregnancy.
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust UK
Furthermore, the cream or spray may contain other ingredients that may not be safe for pregnant women, such as methyl salicylate, which may cause adverse effects on the developing fetus.
Using Deep Heat Muscle Rub While Pregnant?
Here’s the answer a to-be mom got when she asked this question from an expert on the forum;
No honey, you cant use it when pregnant. you have done it once, so dont stress it wont help to worry. The deep heat penetrates through to the muscle and they cant tell how far in after so you cant use it.
Momtastic
The muscle rub may contain other ingredients that may not be safe for pregnant women, such as methyl salicylate, which may cause adverse effects on the developing fetus. It’s important to note that applying deep heat muscle rub on the abdominal area is not recommended as it may cause harm to the developing fetus.
Can Pregnant Women Use Deep Heat Patches or Belts?
Using heating pads during pregnancy can cause concern as high body temperature can harm the developing baby. However, as long as the heating pad does not raise the woman’s core body temperature, it should be safe for brief periods, such as 10 minutes or less. Avoid using heating pads overnight or while sleeping.
A 2011 study linked the use of hot tubs during early pregnancy to neural tube abnormalities; regular use of hot tubs was especially dangerous. There are no large recent studies that have directly tested the safety of heating pads during pregnancy. Still, they are unlikely to raise a person’s core body temperature and are a routine part of pain relief during pregnancy.
Wiley Online Library
Alternatives to Deep Heat for Pain Relief During Pregnancy
There are several alternative options for pain relief during pregnancy, including:
- Heat therapy: Applying a heating pad or warm compress to the affected area can relieve muscle and joint pain.
- Exercise: Staying active during pregnancy can help to alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Massage: A gentle massage can help to relieve muscle tension and pain.
- Acupuncture: Some studies have found that acupuncture can effectively treat back pain during pregnancy.
- Chiropractic care: Chiropractic care can help to alleviate pain and discomfort in the back, neck, and pelvis.
- Consult with a healthcare provider: Always consult your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter pain relief products during pregnancy. They can provide personalized advice based on your individual health needs and circumstances.
In conclusion, deep heat is not safe for pregnant women at all. It contains menthol, which can be absorbed through the skin and may cause skin irritation, burning, or redness. Pregnant women should avoid using deep heat and seek alternative pain relief methods. It is always important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter pain relief products during pregnancy to ensure the safety of the mother and the baby.