Can I use a hot water bottle?

[Crawling]

I dont know how far I am yet but I suspect first trimester. I have awful stomach cramps can I put a hot water bottle (not boiling ob) on my stomach?

[AKMD]

I don't think so, sorry :(

[Crawling]

Ok thanks alot

[AKMD]

That's ok, I was trying to think of something else you could do to help but failing unfortunately. I had cramps like bad period pain from about 8-12 weeks and my MW said as it was my first my uterus had a lot of stretching to do - a bit like when you blow up a balloon, the first bit is always the stiffest, then it goes up really quickly. I did a lot of walking and that seemed to help a bit, or at least took my mind of it.

[Crawling]

I am on my third, it more feels like my stomach has shrunk and the minute I have a mouthful of food I feel sick, have loose bowels and stomach cramps. Cant walk sadly as I also have a migraine which I cant take anything for but thanks for trying to help

[ZenNudist]

Hmmmm I used a hot water bottle, it was my first, he's fine! I was a bit doubtful so I did check and various web doctor sites say it's ok. I don't recall ever asking a MW. Anyway baby survived if it was the wrong thing to do!! Why don't you google it, there's loads of other people asked the same question and got told yes [shrugs].

[WinterLover]

Consultant told me to use one if I got cramps. I never put it directly onto bump tho..

[crochetcircle]

I got told off on another forum for using one which made me really cross. When I checked with my GP he looked at me like I was mad. Of course you can use one he said.

I did I big read of all the NHS literature and none of it mentioned not using a hot water bottle, in fact some of the time they advised using them (for backache).

I think I overreacted a little - there's another thread on the go at the moment about pregnancy do's and don'ts that kind of mirrors how I felt in early pregnancy. You feel like crap and people keep coming up with lists of things that would make you feel better that you can't have anymore.

I think it's good to either ask a professional or do your own research until you are comfortable with your new 'boundaries'. Then you can tell people thanks but no thanks when they offer you silly advice.

[PipPipPip]

I'm no expert, but I think they're fine - it is your OVERALL body temperature that's the issue.

ie. Does it make you feel sweaty, faint, flushed or dizzy? No? Then you're probably fine.

[Crawling]

Thanks all I am going to look it up today while not in agony ready for when I am in agony tonight.

[jillamona]

i'm in my 2nd trimester and have used hot water bottles the whole way through, never even thought to ask dr. i normally just use it on my lower back tho, but i can't see how it could harm the baby