Cramping.... And heating pads

Ok I've been having some crazy cramping on and off. It's like period cramping which I've read is normal. However I usually take IB when I have period cramps. I don't want to take anything so I don't really know how to deal with the pain. I've found a heat pad works. Anyone know if this is acceptable to use or not? I've read a ton of articles all day different things. I'm 5w2d.