My nipples are engorged from my 2 week old's struggles to latch on properly. I am considering buying those thermal gel pads but they're quite expensive. Anyone have any feedback on them?

Please pump out your milk to relieve engorgement. If baby doesn't latch on well those gel pads don't work. However if you still wish to do some hot compress you can use a hotel towel or fill a water bottle with warm water and rub over your breasts. I think you should work on getting a good latch instead. http://sg.theasianparent.com/latching-and-unlatching-during-feeds/