Headaches in Pregnancy

There’s something so exciting about finding out you’re pregnant and thinking about all the wonder your pregnancy and new baby will be bringing to your life. And something NOT so exciting about being plagued with headaches - especially at a time when you are likely trying to avoid medications!!

What is the deal with pregnancy headaches and is there any safe way to get some relief ??

Well, it would be terrific if there was a quick and obvious way to know what is causing the headache - and how to solve it!! I wish that were the case…

Unfortunately, headaches in pregnancy can have a wide variety of causes, which can make your head hurt just trying to find the answer! UGGGHHH

There are some common causes, though, so lets run through a quick list and maybe you can start to narrow down what might be setting off this “pain in the head” for you…

• changing hormone levels

• nasal congestion & runny nose (common in early pregnancy) creating sinus headache

• increased blood volume

• caffeine withdrawals if you’re cutting out your regular coffee or sodas

• stress

• fatigue

• eyestrain

• food sensitivities 

• dehydration (can accompany morning sickness)

• hunger

• low blood sugar

So what can you do if you’re struggling to ward off a headache while trying to avoid medications?

Well, start by making sure to stay hydrated and eat well, especially if morning sickness is your unwelcome guest. Small, frequent meals or snacks might be the easiest if you’re fighting nausea. Avoid known headache triggers like allergens, MSG, cured meats, and strong cheeses.  Keep a headache diary to spot your triggers, and steer clear of those pesky foods or smells that set you off. Smoking is always a no-go during pregnancy, and secondhand smoke is just as bad.

Lower that stress level! A good massage or a cold pack can do wonders for tension headaches. Get moving! A daily walk or some moderate aerobic exercise can make a big difference. (Of course, the very best exercise when you’re pregnant is The Body Ready Method which has WAY more benefits in preparing you for birth and recovery than just headache avoidance!) Try to manage stress with healthy coping methods. Deep breathing, stretching, meditation, and relaxation techniques are all great options.

If you feel like you really need to take something for the pain, always check with your care provider to get something approved for pregnancy.

Although headaches in pregnancy can be common, there are times when things are a bit more concerning. Here’s some symptoms to watch for:

-  pain is severe, 

• doesn’t go away

• accompanied by dizziness, 

• blurred vision or changes in your field of vision 

• happen after 20 weeks of pregnancy

• migraines

These types of symptoms warrant a call to your care provider. Don’t stress out, but be proactive in making sure you are getting the thorough care that you need. Some of these things can be connected to blood pressure issues and it’s always best to get checked out. Remember, when you’re pregnant it’s never wrong to ask questions and seek medical care. “Better safe than sorry” applies to all pregnancy concerns!

On a side note, pregnancy migraines can be a brutal, especially if you’re told there’s nothing you can do. In a recent conversation with other birth professionals, there were several (anecdotal) helps suggested (from personal or client experience) that may provide relief if you’re searching for ideas. While these are not research based and you need to check with your provider ALWAYS, look into supplements like magnesium, CoQ10, Riboflavin, electrolytes (pure added to water, not the energy drink type!), coconut water, maintain hydration and protein requirements, eat every 3 hours to keep blood sugar levels consistent, and try chiropractic care, massage, and dry needling.

While pregnancy headaches can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience, understanding their causes and implementing effective coping strategies can make a significant difference. Remember to prioritize self-care, stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to minimize the occurrence and severity of headaches. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your routine or trying new remedies. By taking proactive steps and seeking appropriate medical advice, you can better manage pregnancy headaches and focus on enjoying this special time in your life.