How Heat Wraps Can Benefit Women During Pregnancy and Labour

Pregnancy, labour and childbirth can be both beautiful and challenging for women, with physical discomfort and low back pain being common occurrences. However, heat therapy can be an effective and natural way to alleviate these symptoms. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of heat therapy during pregnancy and labour and introduce the FlexEze™ Heat Wrap as a convenient and effective option for women.

Here are some of the ways FlexEze Heat Wrap can be beneficial for women during pregnancy and labour: 

1. Relieves low back pain

Low back pain is a common complaint during pregnancy, and it can be caused by the baby’s weight and changes in posture. Heat therapy can help alleviate low back pain by increasing blood flow and reducing muscle tension. A study published in the International Journal of Nursing Practice found that heat therapy effectively reduced pain during labour, including back pain. (source: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ijn.12368)

2. Reduces stress

Pregnancy and labour can be stressful, leading to muscle tension and pain. Heat therapy can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. When the body is relaxed, it can better manage pain and discomfort, making the pregnancy and labour experience more comfortable. A review published in the Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing found that heat therapy was a safe and effective method for managing pain during pregnancy. (source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4012949/)

3. Eases cramps

Cramps are a common complaint during pregnancy, especially in the third trimester. Heat therapy can help ease cramps by increasing blood flow to the affected area and reducing muscle tension. Remember to talk to your healthcare provider if you are experiencing cramps during pregnancy, especially if they are severe or occur at regular intervals.

4. Facilitates labour

Heat therapy can also be beneficial during labour. It can help promote relaxation and reduce discomfort, making it easier for women to manage their labour. Heat therapy can also relax the pelvis muscles, making it easier for the baby to move down the birth canal. A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Perinatal Education found that heat therapy effectively reduced back pain during pregnancy, making it a safe, non-invasive, and effective pain relief method. (source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5792604/) 

5. Promotes active birthing positions

Staying active and in optimal birthing positions during labour are crucial for a positive experience. This is where the FlexEze Heat Wrap stands out, as its lightweight and flexible design allows for continuous heat therapy while promoting movement.

Unlike other heat delivery methods, such as wheat bags, gel packs, or hot blankets that require constant reheating and limit movement due to their bulkiness, the FlexEze Heat Wrap's continuous low-level heat for up to 12 hours offers a practical and effective solution for birthing women seeking to stay active and be in optimal positions during labour.

Being in optimal birthing positions, such as squatting or standing, has been shown to aid in the progression of labour by opening the pelvis, utilising gravity, and encouraging the baby's descent. The FlexEze Heat Wrap's ability to provide continuous heat therapy while allowing for movement and optimal positioning can help facilitate a smoother and more comfortable birthing experience.

Furthermore, the convenience of removing and reapplying the FlexEze Heat Wrap as needed without disrupting heat production is also an advantage. This allows for quick adjustments and modifications to support the movement and fast, easy removal as required, e.g., when using the shower or bathroom or medically necessary.

The FlexEze Heat Wrap is an excellent option for women and medical practitioners looking for a convenient and effective way to apply heat therapy during pregnancy and labour. FlexEze Heat Wrap is made with natural ingredients and is air-activated, making it a safe and easy-to-use option. It can be worn discreetly under clothing, allowing women to continue their daily activities without interruption.

We recommend purchasing the FlexEze Rehab Bundle so that you have a sufficient amount of FlexEze Heat Patch refills for your Heat Wrap to use during late pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period.

Remember, consulting with a healthcare provider before using heat therapy during pregnancy and labour is essential. If you want to try the FlexEze Heat Wrap, speak to your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.