Managing Endometriosis, Adenomyosis & pelvic pain requires a multi-disciplinary approach, from practitioner treatments through to natural remedies and rest.
Enter Heat Therapy.
You can help manage your symptoms in a range of ways with heat, and the best part is that heat is a very relaxing and calming treatment option.
Heat is a wonderful thing. It stimulates blood flow to the area of the body it is applied to. Which then has a range of positive results on the body including delivering oxygen and nutrients to the tissue in the affected areas, which can reduce inflammation and promote healing. Again, we want to aim to keep inflammation down in the body to really tackle the symptoms of Endometriosis, Adenomyosis & pelvic pain.
Heat applied to muscles can help them to relax. It is very common for tense muscles to cause pain and discomfort, especially in the pelvic region when you have Endometriosis, Adenomyosis. Relaxing pelvic muscles can also be particularly helpful in easing menstrual cramps & ovulation pain.
Heat therapy stimulates the release of endorphins. Endorphins are the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals. So a release can reduce pain and therefore improve mood leading to a better quality of life. How amazing is that!
Stress = tension = pain. So! Relaxing and calming the body through the application of heat, or in a warm bath / spa/ sauna and even being in a warmer environment can have such a positive impact on the reduction of pain.
What I love more than anything is that heat treatments can provide immediate relief, it’s non invasive, there’s no need to worry about any side-effects of combining with any other treatment and it can be used almost anywhere. For the best results of heat relief, apply to the the area, for periods of 15-20 minutes at a time.
Heat Therapy for isolated pelvic area relief
- Heat Packs
- Electric- My best friend, yes I do talk to it sometimes, is my electric heat pack. I have had one for over 4 years and as of the last 6 months, go to bed with it every night. The beauty of this is that they stay warm for HOURS, it’s no joke. It only takes 8-9 minutes to warm up and then there is no need to leave bed or the couch to reheat it – especially ideal for a long flare date.
- Microwaveable packs- are simply divine. They are usually filled with natural seeds, so I find there is also an aromatic feel to it. These don’t stay warm for as long as the electric version, but they aren’t as heavy as the electric packs and generally much more budget friendly. I do find they’re a bit more comfortable too, as they mould around your tummy better. You can find them in any supermarket or pharmacy, and often handmade at local markets.
- Travel hack- And lastly, a little travel hack for you, and I have done this on a flight or two before, simply fill a plastic water bottle with hot water. Wrap it in a sock or a spare t-shirt and you’ll benefit from heat in no time.
- Heating belt- this new innovation is great for when you’re out and about. Especially with this current fashion on baggy jeans and trackies, it’s so easy to hide a belt under your clothing. These are wireless, charged by a cable, and lightweight. Such a clever idea for a sneaky relief so you can enjoy socialising in a bad-pain day. Writing this article has just reminded me I have recently ordered a sample, so I’ve just popped it on and honestly, it’s divine!
- Heat Pads- these are single use items that you warm up and stick directly on the affected areas. They’re great for on the go, generally pretty affordable and don’t require any electricity or the likes to activate them. Often you’ll find these in outdoor stores, as people use these in cold climates as well. I LOVE to use these when I’m snowboarding, they provide warmth and keep my lower stomach muscles calm which, I feel, helps me recover faster from the intense exercise that I don’t commonly partake in.
- Caster oil packs- this is something I am excited to try soon (and I’ll report back then!) but essentially this method calls for the application of warm castor oil directly only the skin, and wrapping it in a warm towel for up to an hour to allow the oil to be full absorbed into the body for reducing inflammation and menstrual pain.
Heat Therapy for whole body relief
- Warm bath/ spa – one of the most relaxing experiences for your body. Combine a warm bath with Epsom Salts with essential oils from our Support Sals range, and you’ll benefit from the heat + magnesium absorption + aromatherapy. (Read more about benefits of Magnesium here). If, like me, your mind wanders after a short period of time, pair your bath with a movie and a snack, let your body fully immerse in the treat of solo time and the benefits of a whole-body heat treatment.
- Saunas- are great for increasing blood flow & circulation therefore potentially providing relief from pain through the reduction of inflammation. Also, saunas can have a relaxing affect on the body, reducing muscle tension and stress.
- Heated oils/ hot stone Massage- be sure to see a trained massage therapist who can potentially massage to reduce pain. Massage is great for all of the reasons listed above, increased blood flow & circulation, relaxation, stress reduction and endorphin release. I LOVE a massage, it is one of my self-care treats from time to time, it doesn’t just affect the pain areas, but I find it helps my whole body to release stress and tension, therefore feeling lighter and happier.
- Heated blanket- these are just great for overall warmth, relaxation & stress relief. You can get these from may department stores. They’re not just for winter and can be used anywhere you have an electrical socket nearby. I find them great for the office. If you’re not comfortable warming up your heat pack in the communal microwave (to be honest how gross and dirty are most office microwaves anyway!) or others seeing your heat pack on your tummy, this is a great discreet way to warm up with a little cheeky additional benefit of easing cramps and pelvic pain whilst on the job.
When we relieve the body of pain, we have more energy to focus on healing, which leads to a better quality of life. If the simple application of heat can help you reduce the pain, it seems like it’s a no-brainer, to me, to help manage the symptoms of Endometriosis, Adenomyosis & pelvic pain.
With all heat therapy options, be sure to not apply anything too hot to avoid burns. It’s always best to wrap the items in a material layer and not apply directly to the skin, to keep you safe. As always, check with your health practitioner for advice on different heat therapies before you jump right in.
This is your sign to warm up your heat pack, have a herbal tea, and bask in the sunshine (with SPF 50+ of course) for a calming rejuvenating afternoon.
Take care,
Claire x
Author: livingwithsupport
This information is for educational and exploration purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult your medical professional for advice on your personal situation.