There’s nothing quite like cosying up with a hot water bottle to soothe aches and pains and common pregnancy symptoms that might develop towards the end of your pregnancy. It's a known fact that heat from a hot water bottle can act as pain relief. Relaxing your muscles, improving blood flow and keeping the cold away are all benefits of a hot water bottle. However, are hot water bottles safe in pregnancy? According to the NHS – they can be, but it depends on how you use it! Keep reading to find out how to use a hot water bottle safely when pregnant.
We've compiled a list of recommended hot water bottles if you're looking for a good one. We also address some common concerns pregnant women may have, like will the heat affect baby, and can a hot water bottle cause miscarriage?
Best hot water bottles for pregnancy:
Can you use a hot water bottle when pregnant?
Yes, using a hot water bottle during pregnancy can be helpful for relieving aches and pains, such as pregnancy back pain. However, it's crucial to use it correctly. Many mums-to-be have concerns about whether the heat will affect their baby or even cause a miscarriage. Following expert advice on how to use a hot bottle or other heated item safely, means you'll be able to get the relief you need with peace of mind.
Are there any risks using a hot water bottle when pregnant?
While it is advised that pregnant women should avoid saunas and hot tubs as these have been linked with spina bifida, a hot water bottle is too small to cause the core body temperature to get too high. In fact, you can still have a bath during pregnancy, just as long as it's not too hot.
There are still some personal risks involved though, like burning your skin, water leaking onto an electric blanket, and overheating due to the fact that the increased blood volume in your body can make you feel much warmer than normal, and that's without the hot water bottle! So it's important to know how to use a hot water bottle safely.
How to use a hot water bottle safely during pregnancy
The NHS says you can use a hot water bottle when pregnant – "as long as it’s got a cover on it, and not too hot." They advise allowing "just a warm, gentle heat on your back muscles, about 10-15 minutes, or in your pubic area, or over your hips."
So, always avoid placing it directly on your belly, and ensure it’s covered with a cloth or clothing to prevent burns. Limit the application to 10-15 minutes and never overheat.
Mayo Clinic says, "A heating pad, hot pack, warm water bottle or ice pack placed on your back can give sore muscles relief. If you use a heating pad, set it to the lowest temperature. Wrap the pad or a warm water bottle in a towel to lower the chance of burns."
Guide: How to use a hot water bottle safely
Whether you’re pregnant or not, you should always follow these safety rules when using a hot water bottle:
• Always use a cover to avoid burning.
• Check your bottle before each use for any tears or damage. If you spot any, replace it.
• Ensure the lid fits on securely and that there are no leaks.
• Let any boiling water cool a little before pouring it into a bottle to avoid tearing.
• Only fill to three-quarters full to avoid overfilling.
• Never use a hot water bottle at the same time as an electric blanket, in case of spillage.
• If sleeping with your bottle, avoid laying or sitting on top of it so it doesn't burst.
Safety tips: Using a hot water bottle during pregnancy
While using a hot water bottle can bring comfort, there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure it's safe and effective.
When to use – Hot water bottles can be particularly helpful for relieving pain in areas like your lower back, hips, and bottom. They can also assist in easing muscle tension, especially in your paraspinal muscles.
How to use – It's important to make sure the hot water bottle is not too hot and always cover it. Wrapping it in a towel is a good way to add extra protection. You can apply the heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, but make sure to listen to your body and stop if you feel too warm.
What to avoid – Avoid placing the hot water bottle directly on your belly, as this could lead to excessive uterine congestion and even premature contractions. Also, it’s best to refrain from using heat during the first trimester (0 to 12 weeks of pregnancy).
Other safety tips – Make sure the room is well-ventilated, and always keep a glass of water nearby. It’s also important not to layer too many clothes or blankets while using the hot water bottle, as overheating can cause discomfort. If you begin to feel too hot, remove the hot water bottle and cool down.
As always, if you're unsure about whether it’s safe to use a hot water bottle during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to consult your gynecologist for personalized advice.
Keep scrolling down for answers to the most frequently asked questions about using a hot water bottle when pregnant. We also share some alternative ways to soothe aches and pains.
The best hot water bottle for pregnancy:
Take a look at our pick of the best hot water bottles.
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Best transparent water bottle
Image: AmazonWith a transparent water bottle, you'll clearly be able to see how much water is in it so that you don't overfill it. Not to mention, it also comes with a knitted cover that's got nine different colours to choose from!
Pros
- Transparent so you can see the water level
- Different colour options to choose from
- Flexible bottle
Cons
- Advised not to use boiling hot water in this bottle
- Flexibility means the bottle isn't as sturdy
Best highly rated hot water bottle
Image: AmazonThis one is a great choice if you're wanting to snuggle up on the couch and get cosy! With a thick faux fur cover, it'll provide plenty of protection against your skin. It's also available in a few different colour choices and is a brilliant budget option.
Pros
- Affordable
- Soft fluffy cover provides good protection
Cons
- Difficult to get the bottle out of its cover
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Best long hot water bottle
Image: AmazonThis hot water bottle is ideal for cuddling up thanks to its soft cover. Its durability means you can hug it for hours on the sofa or in bed. A full body hot water bottle is perfect for those days when you're needing a chill day.
Pros
- Body length pain relief
- Thick cover provides good protection
- Stays warm for a long period
Cons
- Have to be especially wary of leaks
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Best hot water bottle for all the family
Image: AmazonAn adorable koala bear inspired wrap is perfect for the whole family to use. With a thick protective pouch, it's a safe way to get some pain relief or cuddle up. The great thing is the design is perfect for kids too.
Pros
- Wraps around your body
- Thick cover provides good protection
- Cute koala cover
Cons
- Small sizing
Best wrap around hot water bottle
Image: Argoswww.argos.co.uk
Similarly, this popular YUYU hot water bottle can be used as a wrap, or as a long hot water bottle for curling up in bed with. Ideal for days when you're feeling those aches and pains, as it feels like a warm hug. Such a versatile option and always there whenever you need it!
Pros
- Fantastic reviews
- Wraps around your body
- Thick cover provides good protection
Cons
- Tie around the back may be awkward
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Best verstaile hot water bottle
Image: AmazonAnother hot water bottle that can be wrapped around your stomach, lower back or neck when you need to relieve some tension, or warm yourself up on a cold winter's evening. With multiple covers, use as a regular hot water bottle or as a wrap around when you feel like it.
Pros
- Different options to choose from
- Wraps around your body
- Thick cover provides good protection
Cons
- Small sizing
Best microwavable heat pack
Image: AmazonAs an alternative to a hot water bottle, there's also a microwavable heat pack. While like every heated item, you should treat them with caution, a microwavable heat pack doesn't come with the risk of bursts, spillages or hot water burns. Just pop it in the microwave and place it around the area causing you discomfort for relief.
Pros
- No hot water required
- Safe to use
- Slow and steady heat
Cons
- May not stay as hot for a long period of time
Alternative ways to manage pregnancy aches & pains
If you're worried about using a hot water bottle, you may prefer to try one of these alternative ways to soother the aches and pains of pregnancy...
Massage – if you're lucky enough to have a partner who can give you a good rub, then pregnancy massage is a great way to relieve tension and relax you. It'll also help to warm you up if you're feeling chilly, as long as his hands aren't too cold and he warms up the oil in his hands before applying it to your body! Alternatively, you can look up professional services, just let them know you're pregnant before you book.
Warm water - You'll want to ensure the water isn't hot, but a warming bath when pregnant, or even a shower can do wonders to soothe aches and pains, especially with some pregnancy-safe bubble bath, essential oils or a calming scented candle.
Pregnancy pillows - You don't have to use pregnancy pillows, ordinary pillows and cushions will do, but pregnancy pillows are designed to support your body and bump in bed or when relaxing on the sofa, and take the strain of tired muscles.
Gentle exercise - While it might seem counterintuitive, exercise during pregnancy can actually help to reduce strains and strengthen your body to carry your bump as it grows. Go for gentle activities like walking or swimming. Pregnancy yoga is popular too.
FAQ: Using a hot water bottle while pregnant
Can heat affect the baby during pregnancy?
One of the main worries for pregnant women is if the heat from a hot water bottle will affect their baby. Don’t worry, your baby won’t be able to feel the warmth from it, as long as you follow safety recommendations. You would be amazed at how much protection there is, thanks to the layers between the hot water bottle and your baby. It's still important to ensure that your hot water bottle is covered and not piping hot, that you don't place it directly on your belly, and that you limit the time spend with it to no longer than 15 minutes.
Can a hot water bottle cause miscarriage?
According to Healthline, Medical research shows that _over_heating during pregnancy can put your baby at risk – however, using a hot water bottle is unlikely to raise your core body temperature to the level that would be harmful for your baby, especially if you are following the recommended guidelines provided by experts on how to safely use a hot water bottle when pregnant. The main things are to not to place the hot water bottle directly on your belly, ensure it's covered and not piping hot, and limit the time using one to under 15 minutes.
Does a hot water bottle help back pain?
Yes, it is well-known that applying heat is effective in helping to relieve back pain, and the same is true during pregnancy. Using a hot water bottle for back pain during pregnancy can be useful as it increases blood flow and promotes relaxation, whcih reduces any pain and stiffness you may be experiencing.
Should I use a hot water bottle for abdominal pain when pregnant?
While abdominal pain is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, ligament stretching and digestive issues, it's important to seek medical advice if the pain is sever or persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms. You can use a hot water bottle for cramps during pregnancy, however, be cautious about applying the heat directly to your belly. You shouldn't use a hot water bottle on stomach during pregnancy – instead, you may consider laying the bottle beside you underneath a cover to benefit from the overall warmth generated, or hold it against your hip, back or thighs. The bottle shoud never be too hot though, and make sure to use a cover.
Sophie Knight is a journalist and mum of two, and previously edited motherandbaby.com before moving on to write about family cars for Parkers.co.uk. Sophie went on to become Commercial Content Editor for M&B, Closer, Heat, Empire, Yours, Garden News, and WhatsTheBest.co.uk before deciding to dedicate more of her time to her family and write freelance.