When using a heating pad, you need to be mindful about how long you’re using it. Any kind of direct heat is bad for the fetus, especially if used for a prolonged time, and this is because overheating can also cause you to get dehydrated.  When dehydrated, it makes it difficult to sweat to cool off your body which can cause Braxton hicks contractions and make you feel dizzy or faint. Braxton hicks contractions are false labor pains, so as a first-time parent, you might freak out and think you’re having real contractions, which isn’t the case.