Dec 10, 2024

Natural Remedies for Period Cramps: Do Heat Patches Work?

heat patches are a natural remedy for period cramps

A recent survey carried out by Wellbeing of Women found that a staggering 96% of us have experienced period pain at some point in our lifetimes, with over half suffering with cramps every single cycle. And while many of us reach for traditional pain relief such a paracetamol when period cramps appear, there are alternative remedies out there that are known to ease symptoms naturally. In this post, we’re looking at heat therapy, and how affective it can be for easing tension and soothing cramping muscles.

What causes period cramps?

Period cramps occur when the uterus contracts to shed its lining during menstruation. They’re usually more intense at the start of your period as there is more lining to shed, and will ease off as your period comes to an end.

Prostaglandins are responsible for triggering the uterus to contract, and when this happens blood flow and oxygen to the uterus is temporarily restricted - which leads to a pain response in the body.

Conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, PCOS, or pelvic inflammatory disease can intensify period cramps even further.

What do period pains feel like?

We’re all different, with varying levels of pain tolerance, so period cramps might not be the same for us all. Most people are able to tolerate period cramps relatively well (although there’s absolutely no denying how miserable they can make you feel). But If you’re concerned, or you find period pain is impacting on your day to day life, make an appointment to see a doctor to discuss.

Broadly speaking, period pain can feel like a dull, throbbing ache, or like a sharp, stabbing sensation in the lower abdomen. Some people feel cramps in their lower back, hips and thighs too. Period pain can range from mild discomfort to severe pain which can be debilitating. Some may experience tightening sensations in the abdomen, cramping muscle spasms, or heavy pressure in the pelvic area. Put simply, there are many ways in which period pain can present itself.

75% of customers we surveyed told us they found period pain concerning, and when you factor in other PMS symptoms such as nausea, fatigue and headaches, it’s easy to see why.

How can heat therapy help to relieve period cramps?

One of the fastest and easiest ways to relieve tension when period cramps strike, is to apply heat therapy. It might be a warm bath, a hot water bottle or a heat patch - all can be effective at soothing cramping muscles. So how does it work?

As we know, period cramps are caused by the uterus contracting, leading to restricted blood flow and oxygen to the area. Heat can counteract this, by helping to improve blood flow to the area, helping muscles to relax and delivering more oxygen to the area. This can help to reduce pain, soothe nerve endings and lower your perception of pain too.

Heat therapy also helps to stimulate sensory receptors in the skin, which can feel instantly comforting, helping us to relax and feel less tense.

Natural remedies at WUKA

WUKA Self-Heating Patch Heat Relief External Use Multi-Colour Non-Medical Soothing Comfort heat Time 30 Seconds Lasts 12 hours Front Box

65% of the customers who took part in our survey told us that they experienced heavy periods, which can often go hand in hand with painful cramps. Yet, only 20% used natural remedies, such as heat patches or supplements to ease their cramps. Here at WUKA, we’re passionate about bridging that gap - and that’s why we thrilled to offer natural, drug-free options to relieve period pain and reclaim comfort throughout the toughest time of your cycle.

We have two options for heat therapy to choose from - our best selling wearable hot water bottle (also available as an extra long water bottle with limited edition festive cover!) and our new WUKA Heat Patches. Read on to find out more about them!

What are new WUKA Heat Patches?

WUKA Self-Heating Patch Heat Relief External Use Multi-Colour Non-Medical Soothing Comfort heat Time 30 Seconds Lasts 12 hours Sachet and Patch

New WUKA Heat Patches are relief, re-imagined!

As a brand created by women, for women, we know only too well how painful periods can be - and we wanted to do something about it. So let's dive in.

What’s inside WUKA Heat Patches?

Our new Heat Patches are natural, safe and non-invasive. They contain:

Iron Powder : a key ingredient, thanks to its ability to generate heat. It does this via an exothermic reaction when exposed to oxygen, meaning the patch heats up as soon as its removed from its packet. Iron powder is a safe and non-toxic substance when sealed in the patch, and works to improve blood flow to the area it's applied to.
Activated charcoal: used alongside iron powder to help facilitate heat generation. Activated charcoal has a porous structure which enhances oxygen distribution - this ensures an even distribution of heat, which is sustained over a period of time.
Motherwort: this is a herb which has been used in traditional medicine to support menstrual health for many years. The alkaloids and flavonoids in Motherwort give it mild analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, which is why it's used to help reduce cramps and discomfort. Motherwort targets muscle relaxation and has a calming effect for cramps.
Mugwort extract: a herb which is known to support digestive health, and to help calm the nervous system. Mugwort extract helps to improve blood circulation and ease stress, which can result in mild pain relief.

WUKA Self-Heating Patch Heat Relief External Use Multi-Colour Non-Medical Soothing Comfort heat Time 30 Seconds Lasts 12 hours Model Front With Patch

How to use WUKA Heat Patches

The WUKA Heat Patch is worn over the top of your underwear, and should not be applied directly to the skin. This non-contact approach ensures the patches can be worn by all, even those with sensitive skin.

To use the heat patches, simply remove from the bag (don’t use scissors!) and peel off the covering layer. Then stick the adhesive side to the outside of your underwear. That’s it! The patch will warm up within 30 seconds, and stay heated for up to 12 hours.

What are the benefits of the WUKA Heat Patch?

New WUKA Heat Patches are:

Natural and safe for all to use, providing on-the-go comfort which is great for anyone with a busy lifestyle, students, etc.

Fast-acting and self-heating - no equipment needed.

Easy to use - adhering to your underwear and not your skin, making them accessible even if you have ultra sensitive skin.

Do Heat Patches work for period pain?

So, do our heat patches work? Yes! They heat up quickly, helping to soothe and provide warming comfort when you need it most.

Our testers described them, “like a warm hug”, noting they were a surprisingly effective way to ease cramps, even on very heavy days. Perfect for anyone suffering with painful period cramps, our heat patches are available in packs of 4.