Relieve Pregnancy Headaches

Having a headache when you are pregnant is quite common. And, of course, this can cause concern. Is it dangerous for the mother or the baby? Is this a symptom to watch out for?

How to explain the headaches of pregnancy?

The headaches in pregnant women often occur from 1 month of pregnancy. Most of the time, these are tension headaches or migraines. Rest assured: neither are dangerous for your baby.

What are the reasons for headaches?

The hormonal system is upset when pregnancy begins, which causes symptoms that are sometimes a little unpleasant. Headaches sometimes accompany nausea, dizziness, or fatigue that we feel at the beginning of pregnancy. Usually, after 3 or 4 months of pregnancy, the headaches and other unpleasant symptoms go away.

Good to know: Headaches are not a reliable sign of the onset of pregnancy. And they don't give any indication of the sex of the baby. Having a headache during pregnancy does not mean that you are expecting a girl or a boy.

Why do people have migraines during pregnancy?

Pregnancy reduces migraine attacks in 60 to 70% of women. Conversely, some see their migraines multiply. And sometimes pregnancy triggers the first attack of migraine in women who have never had one. Fatigue can increase these headaches in early and late pregnancy. In the 2nd trimester of pregnancy, headaches are generally less present around the 5th or 6th month.

Good to know:

• The headaches of migraines are localized on only one side of the head, it can be on the right side or the left side.
• Of pain in the neck can cause tension headaches.
• A person who has frequent headaches may have sleep apnea.

What medication for headaches when you are pregnant?

If you have migraines or frequent headaches while you are pregnant, you should be able to relieve yourself. A medical consultation is necessary first. Here are the different things you can do to treat your headache.

How to relieve headaches in pregnant women?

• Always ask the doctor for advice before taking any medicine if you have a headache during pregnancy.
• Paracetamol is the first remedy for headaches throughout pregnancy. It is harmless for the baby, but it is necessary to respect the indicated doses and never exceed them (maximum 4g per 24 hours or 1 gram every 6 hours).
• Other painkillers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, should generally be avoided throughout pregnancy and imperatively in the 3rd trimester if you have headaches at 8 or 9 months of pregnancy.
• Several migraine medications can be used during pregnancy; medical follow-up is essential.
• A doctor who specializes in it can prescribe homeopathy to relieve headaches due to pregnancy.
• Rest, restful sleep, moderate physical activity, drinking enough, and eating a balanced diet are the best natural remedies for headaches and other inconveniences of pregnancy. You can also try relaxation or sophrology.

When is there an increased risk of a headache while pregnant?

See a doctor promptly if your headache during your pregnancy is accompanied by nausea ( or even vomiting ) or fever or if it does not look like the headache you usually have. The doctor will take your blood pressure. And if there is the slightest doubt, he will give you additional exams that he deems useful.

On the other hand, headaches are a symptom of Covid-19, it is recommended to take the PCR-Covid test if in doubt. The doctor may prescribe a prescription for you to have priority for taking the test in screening centers.

Headaches at the end of pregnancy are not a sign of childbirth, but they can signal preeclampsia. It is a serious complication to be treated urgently, especially if you have symptoms such as edema in the hands or feet, vision problems, tinnitus, recent significant weight gain, etc. It is then time to consult a doctor urgently.