Bothered By Constant Headaches During Pregnancy? Here Are The 7 Causes, Preventive And Treatment Measures

Women frequently undergo various physical changes throughout pregnancy as their bodies adjust to support the developing life. Headaches can be a typical and occasionally difficult indication of these changes. Every woman has minor headaches from time to time, but having a headache when pregnant is quite unpleasant. Nausea and headache are pretty common in the early stages of pregnancy; this, however, reduces as the pregnancy progresses. 

These nagging and sometimes sudden headaches can be brought on at any time of the day or night, but there are many causes of headaches. It can be challenging to treat headaches during pregnancy, most so in the first trimester, when you may not be allowed to take many medications. So, here in this blog, we will learn everything about head pain in pregnancy, pregnancy headaches in the second trimester, how you can prevent them, and treatments associated with them.

Table Of Contents

1. Is Head Pain In Pregnancy Common?

2. What Are The Causes Of Pregnancy Headaches In The Second Trimester?

3. How Do You Prevent Headaches During Early Pregnancy?

4. Treatment Of Head Pain In Pregnancy

5. Expert’s Advice 

6. The Final Say

7. FAQs

8. References

Head Pain In Pregnancy: Is It Common?

Headaches can be expected in early pregnancy, with symptoms improving as pregnancy continues. It will not harm your baby, but it may cause discomfort. If you are pregnant and experiencing headaches, you are not alone. Every one in five women suffered severe acute headaches or migraines in the three months before pregnancy. Medical research shows that 39% of pregnant and postpartum women experience headaches.

To maintain optimal maternal health during this life-changing experience, managing headaches during pregnancy necessitates a balanced strategy that takes into account the safety of both the mother and the developing baby. This often requires lifestyle modifications and occasionally medical advice. 

Pregnancy-related headaches can arise for a variety of reasons, including hormonal changes, increased blood volume, and altered circulation. Although headaches are usually harmless and temporary, each woman will experience them differently in frequency and severity. Here’s how: 

1. Headaches During Pregnancy First Trimester

Headaches in the first trimester of pregnancy may have different causes than headaches in the second or third trimester. Most headaches during pregnancy are not of immediate concern. They are often called ‘primary’, meaning they occur independently and are not a sign or symptom of another disease or pregnancy complication. Primary headaches include: 

• Tension types headaches 

• Migraine attacks 

• Cluster headaches 

  
  

About 26% of headaches during pregnancy are tension headaches. Some women with a history of migraines have fewer migraine attacks during pregnancy. Migraines are also associated with complications that occur later in pregnancy or after the baby is born. Secondary headaches are caused by complications of pregnancy, such as high blood pressure.

2. Headaches In Second And Third Trimesters 

For some women, headaches may be rarer or less severe during the second and third trimesters. Despite this, certain factors can still lead to headaches during these periods:

• Common causes 

• Poor posture due to increased body weight 

• Lack of sleep 

• Tension and stiffness in the muscles 

• High blood pressure or gestational diabetes

  
  

Also Read: Hypertensive Disorders In Pregnancy: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment 

What Are The Causes Of Pregnancy Headaches In The Second Trimester?

Sometimes, the cause of a headache is not so easy to comprehend. Some early symptoms could be due to hormone fluctuation and increased blood volume, especially during the first and second trimesters. There are many reasons why pregnant women suffer from headaches. When you understand the cause of your headache, you can find a better way to deal with it. Several important causes are discussed here: 

1. Hormonal changes 

Changes in hormone levels, especially estrogen and progesterone, during pregnancy are common causes of headaches. Changes in blood circulation due to increased blood volume during pregnancy can cause headaches. 

2. Dehydration 

Dehydration is frequently the cause of headaches in general and during pregnancy. To stay well hydrated, drink plenty of fluids. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water each day. 

3. Insufficient Sleep 

Poor sleep quality or sleep can lead to headaches because it affects the circadian rhythm and leads to desynchronisation of the sleep-wake cycle and rhythms, affecting melatonin, cortisol, and other hormones crucial for pregnancy. 

4. Low Blood Sugar 

Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, can trigger headaches during pregnancy due to the brain's reliance on glucose for optimal function. The increased metabolic demands of pregnancy and hormonal fluctuations can make blood sugar levels more susceptible to drops. 

When blood sugar levels fall below normal, the brain experiences a temporary energy deficit, leading to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and impaired concentration

5. Stress And Anxiety 

Pregnancy usually results in heightened emotional states, and stress, along with anxiety, is frequently experienced. These psychological factors can directly contribute to headaches. When under stress, the body releases hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can constrict blood vessels in the head, leading to tension-type headaches. 

Next, anxiety can cause increased muscle tension, especially in the neck and shoulder area. This commonly leads to muscle contraction headaches. Pregnant women may experience these types of headaches as dull pain that lasts continuously, which greatly affects their comfort and health.

Also Read: 10 Positive Affirmations For Anxiety And Depression | ToneOp 

6. Cutting Off Caffeine 

Cutting back on caffeine because you are pregnant can lead to withdrawal headaches. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about safe levels of caffeine during pregnancy. 

7. Sinus Congestion 

Pregnancy can worsen sinus congestion, which in turn can cause headaches. When the sinuses become inflamed and blocked, pressure builds up, leading to pain and discomfort. This pressure can radiate to surrounding areas, including the forehead and temples, mimicking a tension headache.

How Do You Prevent Headaches During Early Pregnancy?

Try the following to avoid or treat moderate headaches during pregnancy without using medication:

1. Be Aware Of Headache Triggers

If certain foods or smells have caused headaches, try to avoid them. Also, keep a headache diary. Note any other things that seem to trigger your headaches. Then, share the journal with your healthcare provider. Together, you can find multiple headache triggers.

2. Include Physical Activity In Your Daily Routine

Take morning or evening walks or try another moderate aerobic exercise. You can also enrol yourself for yoga or pilates classes, but certainly under expert guidance.

3. Manage Stress

Look for constructive ways to handle stress. You can talk to a friend or family member or find time for a hobby you enjoy. If you feel too much stress, speak to a mental health professional.

4. Practice Relaxation Techniques

Try yoga, meditation, deep breathing, or massage. It's better to lie on your side than face down if you have a massage. Verify that the massage therapist is aware of your pregnancy.

5. Eat Healthy 

Eat at scheduled meals and follow a balanced diet. This can help prevent headaches. Also, drink plenty of fluids, such as water, to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Also Read: A Guide To Healthy Diet During Pregnancy: Foods To Eat & Avoid

6. Maintain A Regular Sleep Schedule

Lack of sleep can contribute to headaches during pregnancy. So, take proper rest and sleep for at least 7 to 9 hours for good quality sleep.

7. Keep A Headache Diary

Tracking your headaches and symptoms makes it easier to spot any changes your doctor should know about. Monitor what causes headaches, whether food or activity, and discuss it with your doctor.

8. Stay Hydrated

Drink about 8 to 10 glasses of water a day, but water requirements vary from person to person. Keep a water bottle next to you at all times, and keep drinking water to stay hydrated.

9. Consider Biofeedback

This method teaches you to control certain body functions, such as your heart rate and breathing patterns. It can help prevent or relieve headaches. Talk to your doctor if you would like to try biofeedback to treat headaches during pregnancy.

10. Try Safe Home Remedies

Headaches might be relieved by placing a cold cloth over your head or by lying down in a dark place. Herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, ginger tea and pepper-turmeric tea are effective in curbing headaches. However, make sure to discuss all-natural remedies with a doctor before using them. 

Also Read: Ginger Tea And Headaches: 4 Benefits Of Ginger Tea For Migraines That Reduces The Need Of Painkillers! 

Treatment Of Head Pain In Pregnancy

Treatment of the headache during pregnancy is relatively not very different from the standard treatment. The administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs does not pose severe risks in pregnant women if taken in moderation. 

Here are medications that are a popular remedy for headaches during pregnancy:

1. Midrin

Midrin is a widely used, over-the-counter medication commonly used to treat headaches. It is a combination preparation of acetaminophen and a mild sedative. Midrin also has an effect that tends to constrict the vassal system, which helps reduce blood flow and, consequently, pain. 

2. Imitrex

This drug belongs to the medication group that minimises blood circulation in the brain. It is most effective if bought at the initial stage while experiencing migraine symptoms. Some nauseating therapeutic agents taken by women with migraines are known to be safe to use during pregnancy. Nonetheless, it is always better to consult your obstetrician as to the medications you use to relieve your migraines during your first prenatal visit, at the least. 

3. Ergotamines

Some of the drugs called ergotamines contain a vasoconstrictor with a higher activity and are dangerous to fetal development. They also can initiate uterine contractions.

Furthermore, intravenous use may cause uterine contractions. For this reason, it is categorically incorrect to take them during pregnancy. Thus, severe migraines could need a hospital stay because intravenous fluids, painkillers or anti-emetics may need to be administered if one cannot even swallow tablets.

Also Read: Best Tension Type Headache Treatment Options | ToneOp 

Expert’s Advice 

Most women have fewer headaches during pregnancy; you should try to relieve the headache as much as possible with natural means, as it will not harm the fetus anyway. You should also refrain from all known triggers for headaches, which may include allergens and specific food items like monosodium glutamate, cold meats and strong cheeses.

You should also not smoke, eat good food and enough liquids, particularly if you experience morning sickness. In addition, you should focus on reducing your stress levels, for which you can try a massage or a cold pack to help with tension headaches.

                                                                       Health Expert
Lavina Chauhan

The Final Say

The body experiences various changes during pregnancy that may result in headaches. Headaches during pregnancy can be annoying, but they are usually nothing to worry about. 

Occasional mild headaches are common in women. Secondary headaches that occur as a result of an underlying problem can be dangerous. The vast majority can be treated at home under the guidance of a doctor. 

However, if your symptoms are severe or something doesn't feel right, seeking care and being safe is much better. It is essential to find a treatment that is safe for the fetus. Anyone unsure of their symptoms or experiences worrisome or severe symptoms should see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

FAQs

1. When should I worry about headaches during pregnancy? 

When the headache is severe or does not go away, along with feeling unsteady, having blurry eyesight or alterations in vision field - get in touch with your healthcare provider. Headaches may be linked to blood pressure problems during pregnancy. If they are continuous or serious and happen after 20 weeks of being pregnant, consult the doctor.

2. Is it normal for a pregnant woman to have a headache every day? 

While headaches are common during pregnancy, having them daily is not the norm. If you have headaches every day, it’s better if you talk to your doctor and find the cause. 

3. What is the main cause of headaches during pregnancy?

The cause of headaches during pregnancy can be due to the variations in blood volume, and hormone levels may be important throughout the first trimester. Eye strain, extreme exhaustion, and stress can all contribute to a dull, generalised headache. The frequent symptoms of runny nose and nasal congestion in the early stages of pregnancy may make sinus headaches more likely.

4. How to get rid of headaches in pregnancy?

Take the following precautionary steps to prevent headaches in pregnancy:

• Manage Stress

• Eat a healthy and balanced diet regularly

• Keep yourself hydrated with water

• Engage in physical activity

• Follow a regular sleep schedule

• Be aware of your headache trigger

References

• https://utswmed.org/medblog/headache-migraine-pregnancy/

• https://health.clevelandclinic.org/why-do-women-experience-pregnancy-headaches

• https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/headaches-and-pregnancy/

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/headaches-during-pregnancy/faq-20058265

  
  

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