Pregnancy Headaches: Why They Happen and How to Safely Find Relief

Headache during pregnancy – what is normal? When should I be worried? Can I take paracetamol for pregnancy headaches?

Pregnancy is a wonderful thing to celebrate, but few people tell you about the unpleasant symptoms that can arise along the way. Heartburn, gas, constipation, and migraines, to name a few symptoms.

Should headaches ever be a cause for concern, even if they are a common symptom of pregnancy?

Headache During Pregnancy

“Headaches are common in women both in and outside of pregnancy,” stated Kelley Saunders, MD, an OBGYN at Banner–University Medicine Women’s Institute. “But whether they are normal or not should always be discussed with your doctor.”

Though you may experience a different type of headache during pregnancy than usual, most headaches aren’t hazardous.

Are headaches a sign of pregnancy?

Headaches can indeed be a sign of pregnancy for some women. Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, especially in the early stages, can lead to headaches or migraines. These hormonal shifts can cause increased blood flow, changes in blood pressure, and fluctuations in estrogen levels, all of which can contribute to headaches.

Additionally, factors like dehydration, stress, fatigue, and changes in sleep patterns that are common during pregnancy can also trigger headaches.

However, it’s important to note that headaches alone are not a definitive indicator of pregnancy, as they can also be caused by various other factors. If you suspect you may be pregnant and are experiencing persistent headaches or other symptoms, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Headaches in the first trimester of pregnancy may occur for different causes than headaches in the second or third trimester, and frequent and severe headaches during pregnancy may be an indication of other health problems.

Is It Pregnancy Headache or Something Else

It’s not always simple to know what kind of headache you’re getting, but tension-type headaches, migraines, and cluster headaches are the most prevalent throughout pregnancy.

• Tension Headache

The most prevalent type of headache during pregnancy is tension headaches. It can feel as if someone is squeezing your head like a watermelon. You may be more susceptible to this type of headache if you carry your stress in your shoulders and neck.

• Migraines

Migraines are a form of headache that affects one side of the head only. Migraines might worsen during the first few months of pregnancy for some women and then improve later on. Others may not notice any change, reduction, or difference in their migraines.

• Cluster headache

Cluster headaches are uncommon, although they can happen during pregnancy. You’ll experience acute discomfort around your eyes or temples at regular intervals throughout the day.

• Sinus headache

Sinus headaches are characterised by pressure around the eyes, cheekbones, and forehead, as well as a stuffy nose. These are most usually associated with a sinus infection, but they can also be mistaken for migraines. When you lean forward or lie down, the pain can get worse in both circumstances.

• Chronic headaches

If you have headaches on more than half of the days in a month, you may have chronic headaches. This encompasses migraines and other types of headaches; “chronic” just refers to how often they occur.

Headaches are frequent throughout pregnancy. Tension headaches are common throughout the first trimester of pregnancy. This could be due to the numerous changes you’ve experienced in a short amount of time.

Headaches can occur in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy for a variety of causes. Headaches in your mid-to late-pregnancy might have dangerous consequences.

Headache Symptoms That Are Common During Pregnancy

The intensity of the headache during pregnancy varies from person to person. You could have:

• persistent pain
• pain that throbs or pulses
• extreme discomfort on one or both sides
• a burning sensation behind one or both eyes

Migraine symptoms can include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• seeing light lines or flashes
• potential blind spots

What Causes Headache During Pregnancy?

Image source: iStock

First trimester

In the first trimester of pregnancy, tension headaches are frequent. This could be because your body is going through a lot of changes right now. These alterations could cause headaches:

• Hormonal changes
• Increased blood volume
• Weight fluctuations

During the first trimester of pregnancy, common reasons for headache pain include:

• dehydration
• vomiting and nausea
• stress
• insufficient sleep
• caffeine deprivation
• malnutrition
• hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• insufficient physical activity
• light sensitivity
• alterations in vision

Headache during pregnancy can also be caused by certain foods. Some foods are known to trigger headaches in some people:

• dairy
• chocolate
• cheese
• yeast
• tomatoes

Causes of Pregnancy Headache in the Second and Third Trimester

Headaches in the second and third trimesters can be caused by a variety of factors. Among them are:

• weight gain
• posture
• insufficient sleep
• diet
• muscular tension and strain
• hypertension (high blood pressure)
• diabetes

Headache from sleeping too much and headache after waking up

While it is commonly known that lack of sleep can contribute to headaches, it may be surprising to learn that sleeping too much can also be a potential trigger. Oversleeping can disrupt the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to imbalances in neurotransmitters and hormonal levels that can result in headaches.

Additionally, excessive sleep can contribute to issues such as dehydration, muscle tension, and even low blood sugar levels, all of which can potentially lead to headaches. However, it is important to note that everyone’s sleep needs vary, and occasional nights of extended sleep may not necessarily cause headaches.

If you consistently experience headaches after sleeping too much, it is advisable to maintain a regular sleep schedule and seek medical advice if the problem persists.

Blood Pressure and Headache During Pregnancy

Headaches in the second or third trimester of pregnancy could be an indication of elevated blood pressure. In the United States, around 6 to 8 per cent of pregnant women aged 20 to 44 have high blood pressure.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this treatable problem can result in catastrophic complications for both mother and infant. After week 20, this is the most typical symptom.

High blood pressure during pregnancy can increase the risk of:

• stroke
• preeclampsia
• eclampsia

If the baby’s oxygen supply is inadequate, it could lead to:

• premature birth (before 37 weeks)
• abruption of the placenta
• low birth weight (less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces) of the baby

Image Source: Shutterstock

How to Relieve Pregnancy Headache

How can I get rid of a headache when pregnant?

A throbbing head and a bad migraine can be one of the reasons why some women do not get enough physical activity or get enough sleep while pregnant. But even though occasional headaches are part of the usual pregnancy symptoms, there are a lot of home remedies and treatments that you can try to relieve the pain of headaches during pregnancy.

• Get enough sleep.

Sleep is especially difficult later in pregnancy, yet it is critical for your physical and mental well-being. So make rest a priority. Find a comfortable pregnant pillow and curl up.

• Make sure you drink enough water.

Pregnant women need more water than other people. While you may wish to avoid extra trips to the restroom, you and your baby both benefit from adequate fluid consumption.

• Eat balanced, regular meals.

Eat modest meals throughout the day to avoid low blood sugar. Sugary drinks and candy should be avoided.

• Consider getting a prenatal massage.

A full-body massage can help you relax your neck, shoulders, and back muscles. You can have it done by a professional, or have your partner massage your head, neck, and shoulders with warm compresses.

• Avoid triggering situations.

Keep a journal to track specific triggers and learn how to avoid them. Strong smells and nitrites or nitrates are two prominent headache triggers.

• Try relaxation and exercise strategies.

Regular exercise has been shown to lower stress and improve overall happiness. Before beginning any new workout programs, consult your doctor.

Image from iStock

• Reduce your caffeine intake

Limit your caffeine intake to fewer than 200 mg per day (as approved by your doctor).

Your doctor may manage migraines differently during pregnancy if you have a history of them. Consult your doctor about which medications are safe to take while pregnant.

• Pregnancy-safe medication for headache

Before taking your regular headache pain medication while pregnant, consult your doctor. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin etc.).

These pain relievers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, might be dangerous to your developing baby, especially if taken during the first trimester. During pregnancy, many women may use acetaminophen (Tylenol). However, some research suggests that using acetaminophen may have side effects.

Can I take paracetamol when pregnant?

Many expectant mothers wonder if it’s safe to take paracetamol (acetaminophen) during pregnancy. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, paracetamol is generally considered safe when used as directed during pregnancy. It’s often recommended for managing mild to moderate pain or fever while pregnant.

However, it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication during pregnancy to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific situation and to discuss proper dosages.

How to Prevent Headache During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a rollercoaster of changes, and headaches can be an unwelcome part of the journey. But fear not, there are ways to help prevent those pesky head-pounders! Here are some casual and informative tips:

1. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can trigger headaches, so sip water throughout the day.

2. Eat Regularly: Keep your blood sugar stable by eating small, balanced meals and snacks.

3. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or prenatal yoga.

4. Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night.

5. Watch Caffeine Intake: Limit caffeine consumption, as excessive caffeine can contribute to headaches.

6. Stay Active: Regular, gentle exercise can help reduce tension and improve blood circulation.

7. Posture Matters: Maintain good posture, especially if you have desk work.

Pregnancy Headache: When to See Your Doctor

When should I be worried about headaches during pregnancy?

If you get headaches during your pregnancy, do not hesitate to bring them up with your health practitioner on your next check-up. If you have a personal or family history of migraines, high blood pressure, seizures, or diabetes, inform your doctor right away.

Seek medical help at once if you have:

• fever
• vomiting and nausea
• a hazy vision
• excruciating discomfort
• pain below your ribs
• a headache that lasts for several hours
• recurring headaches
• fainting
• a sudden increase in swelling of your face, hands, feet or ankles
• seizure

Obey your doctor’s instructions for all drugs and treatments. Follow all diet and exercise recommendations in the letter. All follow-ups and regular check-ups should be scheduled with your doctor. With proper care, most causes of headaches during pregnancy can be treated or avoided.

Here at theAsianparent Singapore, it’s important for us to give information that is correct, significant, and timely. But this doesn’t serve as an alternative for medical advice or medical treatment. theAsianparent Singapore is not responsible for those that would choose to drink medicines based on information from our website. If you have any doubts, we recommend consulting your doctor for clearer information.