Menstrual cramps can be debilitating and often leave us searching for relief.
While over-the-counter pain medication can be effective, many women prefer a more natural approach.
One of the simplest and most natural solutions is a heating pad to use for menstrual cramps, endometriosis, and lower back pain.
In this post, you’ll find the 6 best heating pads for cramps, according to hundreds of reviews online.
These include portable heating pads for on-the-go relief, stick-on heating pads you can wear discreetly, and traditional electric heating pads for stronger relief at home.
Overview
- Top Pick
- Does a Heating Pad Help With Cramps?
- How to Choose a Heating Pad for Period Pain
- The 6 Best Heating Pads for Menstrual Cramps
- 1. UTK Infrared Heating Wrap – Best Deep Penetrating & Weighted
- 2. Flyhorse Portable Cordless Heating Pad – Most Discreet Electric
- 3. Sunbeam XL Heating Pad – Best Cheap for Home Use
- 4. Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad – Best for Endometriosis
- 5. ThermaCare HeatWraps – Best Stick-On
- 6. Ostrichpillow Heatbag – Best Microwaveable
- More Microwaveable Options
- Where Do I Place a Heat Pack for Cramps?
- How Long Should I Use a Heating Pad for Cramps?
- Heating Pads for Cramps FAQ
- More Ways to Relieve Menstrual Cramps Naturally
Top Pick
If you want the best overall heating pad for menstrual cramps, the best choice for most women is a pad that is:
- Easy to place on the lower abdomen
- Hot enough to feel real relief quickly
- Comfortable enough to use for an hour or more
- Simple enough that you will actually keep using it
For home use, the Sunbeam XL Heating Pad is the easiest low-cost place to start.
For wearable relief, the FlyHorse Cordless Belt or ThermaCare HeatWraps make more sense.
If you specifically want deeper infrared heat and a heavier wrap feel, then the UTK Infrared Heating Wrap is the premium option.
If you want a softer, more natural, cord-free option for curling up in bed or on the couch, the Ostrichpillow Heatbag is the best microwaveable choice.
This post may contain affiliate links at no extra cost to you.
Does a Heating Pad Help With Cramps?
Yes. Heat is one of the simplest and most effective natural ways to ease period cramps.
It helps relax the uterine muscles and improve local blood flow, which can reduce that tight, cramping feeling.
In one small study, many participants felt meaningful pain relief over several hours of heat use.
27% of patients had the pain relieved after 1 hour, 43% at the second hour, and 79% at the end of the fourth hour.
How to Choose a Heating Pad for Period Pain
Start with one question: Do you want relief at home or while moving around?
There are different types of heating pads, such as electric, cordless, adhesive, and microwaveable.
Choose the type that suits your lifestyle and needs.
- Small electric heating pads
- Large heating pads
- Portable heating pads
- Microwaveable heating pads
- Moist heating pads
- Stick on Wraps
So, which heating pad is best for menstrual cramps and period back pain?
In my experience, a heating pad for cramps should be small but large enough to cover your lower abdomen (or lower back).
You’ll need to decide whether you want to use it on the go or plan to use it at home while lying down and relaxing.
Suppose you suffer from excruciating and debilitating period pain and cramps (when you can’t even move). In that case, you may not want to choose a microwaveable wrap because the heat may not last long enough for substantial relief.
The best choice for you would be a regular small electric heating pad (either corded or battery-operated), with either dry or moist heat.
If your pain is bearable and you want to stay on the move, I suggest a portable heating pad that you can easily hide under your clothes and go about your day.
Regular electric heating pads are usually kept at home, and when you feel the painful cramps starting, you plug them in (or turn them on with the remote if they are cordless), choose a heat level and treatment time, and relax.
On the other hand, heat wraps (patches) are so small you can carry them in your bag, and they don’t need a power supply to provide almost immediate heat to relieve your pain (but you can only use them once).
Pro Tip – In the long term, electric heating pads are more cost-effective than heat wraps.
The 6 Best Heating Pads for Menstrual Cramps
Here’s my short comparison table. Below, you’ll find the full reviews for each heating pad for cramps.
1. UTK Infrared Heating Wrap – Best Deep Penetrating & Weighted
VIEW ON AMAZON $69
- Type – Electric, infrared
- Size – 9″ x 55″ x 0.7″
- Weight – 1 lb.
- Auto shut off – 3 hours (3 time settings)
✅ Pros – Deep penetrating infrared heat – most effective, natural Gemstone therapy, negative ions, time and temperature control
❌ Cons – More expensive than average, corded
The UTK heating belt is the only one on my list that uses infrared heat therapy through Jade Stones.
I’ve found that infrared technology is the best form of heat you can use at home, and the most natural one as well.
Infrared light energy (IR rays) penetrates deeper into your aching lower abdomen and lumbar back and boosts blood circulation to the area.
This promotes the speedy arrival of pain-relieving and healing blood components without any side effects.
The corded belt is EMF-free, and you can set the temperature (up to 150°F!) with the corded controller.
Another unique benefit here is the extra weight from the Jade stones, which adds a kind of gentle weighted comfort when you use it lying down.
Available on Amazon ($69)
2. Flyhorse Portable Cordless Heating Pad – Most Discreet Electric
VIEW ON AMAZON $25
- Type – electric
- Size – 8.3″ x 3.9″x 1″ (heating area)
- Weight – only 8.11 ounces
- Temperatures – 104℉ – 149℉
- Battery life – 2-4 hours
✅ Pros – highly customizable, extremely lightweight, fits inside a handbag, fast heating, stays put
❌ Cons – vibration massage may be too much for some people, battery charge time is unstable
The Flyhorse cordless heating belt is best for on-the-go relief because it is small, lightweight, cordless, and easy to wear under everyday clothes.
It is wearable enough to use under clothes when you need relief outside the house, though it is bulkier than a stick-on wrap.
It heats up fast, has 4 heat levels and 4 massage modes, and the new model has a larger heating area – 8.3″x3.9″x1″.
If you don’t like the vibration massage (for me, it was sometimes a bit too much), you can use the heat without the massage.
The buckle works well, and the belt stays put and doesn’t fall off. You can even turn off the small light if it bothers you.
Available on Amazon ($25)
3. Sunbeam XL Heating Pad – Best Cheap for Home Use
VIEW ON AMAZON $30
- Type – Electric
- Size – 24″ x 3″ x 12″
- Weight – 1 lb.
- Auto shut off – no
✅ Pros – Four heat settings and moist/dry heat options, can cover a large area, Fast 30-second heat-up, 4-hour battery life, 2-hour shut off
❌ Cons – Corded, takes some time to heat up
If your cramps usually spread into your lower back too, this is the easiest budget pick because it is good for large areas and does not feel tiny or restrictive.
The Sunbeam heating pad uses UltraHeat Technology to maintain consistent heat and has a slide controller with 3 heat settings: Low – 90°F / Medium – 95°F/High – 100°F.
It is also better for bedtime comfort than portable belts, because it can cover a larger area and keep giving steady warmth while you rest.
It’s a basic (and low-cost) heating pad with no moist heat therapy option or a timer.
It does not shut off automatically and keeps working on and on until you shut it off – no blasted shut off every so often.
However, you’ll have to remember to turn it off when you are done with it.
We recommend not using one on bare skin.
Available on Amazon ($30)
And now, the best cordless heating pad for menstrual cramps:
4. Sunbeam Cordless Heating Pad – Best for Endometriosis
VIEW ON AMAZON $45
- Type – Electric
- Size – 9.5″ x 12″
- Battery life – 4 hours per charge
- Heat settings – 3 (110°F – 160°F)
✅ Pros – Heats up in 30 minutes, cordless, 3 heat settings, wraps around the abdomen
❌ Cons – No automatic shut-off, long charging time
The Sunbeam Cordless Heating Belt is a good option for those looking for a portable and rechargeable heating pad for pain relief in the abdomen or lower back area.
This is a good option if you want period-cramp relief on the go without being stuck near an outlet.
However, it may not be the best option for those who require a very hot heating pad or an automatic shut-off timer.
I like that it can be wrapped around the body and that you can move around with it without being stuck next to an outlet.
And it is just as hot as a corded heating belt.
It can extend to 55 inches through the strap, and it is machine washable!
✅ Available on Amazon ($45)
And now, for the ultimate portable heat wraps for menstrual pain:
5. ThermaCare HeatWraps – Best Stick-On
VIEW ON AMAZON $20
- Type – stick-on, air-activated
- Size – 5″ x 5″x 5″
- Weight – 3.2 ounces
- Heat duration – 8 hours
✅ Pros – Stay hot for 8 hours, discreet, 100% portable
❌ Cons – Higher long-term cost, may feel a bit bulky
ThermaCare HeatWraps are single-use, air-activated heat wraps made for discreet relief on the go.
Through my research, these sticky, small, and cordless heating pads are far more comfortable than heating pads, but while they will last for 8 hours, they are made for one-time use only.
The ThermaCare HeatWraps are air-activated. You stick them to your underwear, open the pouch, and they start warming up on their own. They are thin, comfortable, and discreet under clothes, which is why they work so well for workdays, errands, or travel.
I would give them my highest rating if it weren’t for the fact that you have to keep buying them over and over, and the price can add up.
✅ Available on Amazon ($20 for 8 pads)
👉 Alternative to ThermaCare:
If you want a similar stick-on option that feels a bit more period-specific, take a look at the LOLA Heating Patch.
LOLA made these patches specifically for menstrual cramps, and they last up to 11 hours, warm on contact, and stay discreet under clothes.
They also stick to underwear or clothing, so they work well for days when you need portable relief without carrying a heating pad around.
✅ Available at Lola ($15)
See the top 6 portable heating pads for back pain relief!
6. Ostrichpillow Heatbag – Best Microwaveable
- Type – microwaveable heat bag
- Size – 12.6″ x 6.5″ x 2.3″
- Weight – 2 pounds
- Heat style – natural clay-based warmth
✅ Pros – no cords, natural heat, softer and more comforting than many electric pads, reusable, safe alternative to a hot water bottle
❌ Cons – not ideal for on-the-go use, needs reheating, and it will not stay hot as long as an electric pad or stick-on wrap
A soft, comforting heat bag with gentle weighted comfort and no cords, batteries, or sticky patches.
If you want the most comforting and natural-feeling heat option in this guide, the Ostrichpillow Heatbag is the best microwaveable pick.
We like the natural clay system, odor-free design, and focused heat.
This type of product makes the most sense if your cramps make you want to curl up in bed or on the couch with something soft and warm, rather than strap on a belt or plug in a heating pad.
It is also a nice option if you like the idea of gentle weighted comfort on the lower abdomen, without cords or disposable wraps.
✅ Available at Ostrichpillow ($60) and on Amazon ($60)
More Microwaveable Options
Here are two more high-quality heating pads found during my research, both of which are microwaveable:
1. My Heating Pad – Hot Therapy Pack – Soothing Heat Therapy
It’s a multi-purpose heat pack (21X4.5 inches) that weighs about 2.5 lbs (to keep some pressure on your abdomen) and feels very nice on the skin.
You simply heat it in your microwave, and you’re good to go.
It’s handmade in the USA and is eco-friendly and pet-safe.
Because it weighs about 2.5 pounds, it gives you that gentle weighted comfort that many people find especially soothing during cramps.
2. Sacksy Thyme Ultra Premium All-Natural Microwavable Aromatherapy Heating Pads
This natural aromatherapy sack (22 x 7.5 inches) is best for natural living enthusiasts (plus, it’s cute!).
It’s made with 100% cotton in the USA, and the sack contains organic flaxseed, cherry pits, and herbal filler (lavender, eucalyptus, cherry, and lemon verbena).
When you heat it in the microwave, it smells heavenly, but it can also be used as a cold pack.
A great way to relax, reduce stress, and relieve your pain.
Where Do I Place a Heat Pack for Cramps?
For menstrual cramps, a heat pack can be placed directly on the lower abdomen. This area is where the uterus is located and is often where most of the cramping discomfort is felt.
You can also place the heat pack on your lower back since this can help relieve back pain that often occurs alongside menstrual cramps.
See where to place a heating pad for a UTI, constipation, back pain, and sciatica.
How Long Should I Use a Heating Pad for Cramps?
According to clinical trials, using a heating pad for 4 hours straight can reduce 79% of the pain by the end of the 4th hour.
However, you don’t have to use it for the full 4 hours to experience significant pain relief.
The study found that the patients felt a 27% pain reduction after the first hour, 43% less pain after the second hour, and 79% pain reduction after the 4th hour.
Heating Pads for Cramps FAQ
Can a Heating Pad Stop Your Period?
There is no scientific evidence that a heating pad can stop your period.
In fact, a heating pad, which increases blood flow in the uterus, may slightly increase your period bleeding and make your uterus “clean up” faster.
This process happens while the heating pad effectively helps relieve menstrual pain naturally.
Is a Cordless Heating Pad Worth it for Cramps?
Yes, if you need to work, commute, or move around while using it.
If you mostly use heat in bed or on the couch, a corded pad is usually more cost-effective.
Is a Stick-On Wrap Better than an Electric Pad?
Stick-on wraps are better for convenience and portability.
Electric pads are better for repeated use and have a lower long-term cost.
More Ways to Relieve Menstrual Cramps Naturally
In my experience, Ginger, turmeric, and magnesium oil are just a few of the natural remedies that are very helpful for me, and they are all backed by science.
If the pain is located in the lower back, a massage pillow (with Shiatsu rolling motors) can help very quickly, and practicing relation techniques such as meditation works very well as well.
Conclusion
If you want the simplest and cheapest home option, start with the Sunbeam XL.
If you want to move around while using heat, choose the Flyhorse or Sunbeam Cordless Belt.
If you want the thinnest and most discreet on-the-go option, choose ThermaCare HeatWraps.
If you want a heavier, more premium heating wrap with infrared heat, choose the UTK Infrared Wrap.
And if you want the most natural reusable option, go with a microwaveable heating pad.
Choosing one depends on your specific needs.
What’s your experience with using heat to relieve cramps? Let me know in the comments below.
To your health and happiness,
The Back Pain Relief Products Team
Studies
Jo, J., & Lee, S. H. (2018). Heat therapy for primary dysmenorrhea: A systematic review and meta-analysis of its effects on pain relief and quality of life. Scientific reports, 8(1), 16252. doi:10.1038/s41598-018-34303-z
Grandi G, Ferrari S, Xholli A, et al. Prevalence of menstrual pain in young women: what is dysmenorrhea?. J Pain Res. 2012;5:169-174. doi:10.2147/JPR.S30602
