Skip to main content Dry heat therapies include electric heating pads and patches.
Many self-care strategies can be done in the comfort of your own home to ease endometriosis-related pelvic pain. One such strategy is the use of heat to manage period (menstrual) pain. Heat therapy, also known as thermotherapy, is self-reported by people as an effective strategy for reducing pelvic pain.
Whilst the exact mechanism by which heat reduces pelvic pain in not well known, heat is thought to reduce the amount of pain felt by the body, promote blood flow and ease contractions. Heat therapy comes in many forms and involves both ‘dry heat’ and ‘moist heat’ modalities. Dry heat therapies include electric heating pads and patches.
Step 1: Choose a heat treatment method
A vast range of different heat packs is available such as electric heat pads and stick-on heat patches. Consider what suits you and your situation. Electric heat pads or wheat bags may be easier to use at home while stick on heat pads can be useful when you are out and about at work or school. To find what might work for you, chat to your GP or pharmacist. There are so many options that it may take some time to find the one that is most effective.
Step 2: Apply heat
Once you have chosen your heat treatment method then it’s time to apply the heat! Apply to the affected area - this might include your lower back or abdomen. It is important to only apply heat for the recommended time to avoid adverse effects like burns or skin sensitivity. The time recommended for application of each heat treatment varies and is often stated in the user manual for the product. Ensure you are being safe when using these heat methods and follow the instructions especially if you have sensitive or easily irritated skin. If you notice redness on your skin please discontinue use and consult your health care team.
Step 3: Trial and error
A self-care strategy which works for one person may not work for another. Similarly, a heat treatment which works for one person may not work for another. So do not be discouraged if one method does not work for you. It is all about trial and error and finding which heat treatment method or self-care strategy best suits you and your lifestyle.