Headache During Pregnancy - Treatment and Natural Home Remedies

Headache During Pregnancy - Types, Causes, Treatment, and Natural Home Remedies

Headaches are common complications that are faced by many pregnant women during pregnancy. Headaches can occur during any trimester of pregnancy but most commonly occur in the first and third trimester of pregnancy.

Types of Headaches during pregnancy

Headaches that occur during pregnancy are of various types. The types of headaches during pregnancy are the following:

Tension Headaches

Tension Headaches occur due to stress or anxiety in which you may feel tightness in your head. Follow these tips to treat tension headaches during pregnancy:

• Take rest and avoid stress, depression.

• Place a cold compress on the back of your neck.

• Do neck stretching exercises and yoga.

• Change your positions. 

• Take a warm bath or shower.

(Also read: 8 common tests during the third trimester of pregnancy)

Sinus Headaches

Sinus Headaches usually caused due to allergies and infections. It can cause pain and pressure on the forehead, around the eyes, or nose. Follow these tips to treat sinus headaches during pregnancy:

• Take proper rest.

• Stay away from those things which may cause allergy.

• Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated.

Migraine Headaches

Migraine Headaches are more painful headaches that usually occur on one side of the head. Follow these tips to treat migraine headaches during pregnancy:

• Take adequate rest.

• Get a massage to get some relief from migraines.

• Apply ice packs to your head.

• Use Relaxation techniques such as meditation, mild exercises, deep breathing, or yoga.

Causes of Headaches during pregnancy

There are several reasons for headaches during each trimester of pregnancy. 

Causes of Headaches during the First Trimester of pregnancy

The body of pregnant women goes through a lot of changes during the first trimester of pregnancy which can trigger a headache. The causes of headache during the first trimester of pregnancy are:

• Hormone Fluctuations

• Stress

• Depression or Anxiety

• Dehydration

• Morning Sickness

• Nausea and Vomiting

• Sleep Deprivation

• Low Blood Sugar

• Less Physical Activity

• Eyestrain

• Caffeine Withdrawl

• Changes in Vision

Pregnant women who experience headaches should avoid those things which can trigger headaches. Some of the common trigger foods that can cause headaches during pregnancy are:

• Dairy products

• Food that contains preservatives

• Cheese

• Yeast

• Chocolate

• Peanuts

• Bread

• Strong Smells

• Monosodium Glutamate

(Also read: What is Ectopic Pregnancy?)

Causes of Headaches during the Second and Third Trimester of pregnancy

The causes of headaches during the second and third trimester of pregnancy are:

• Excess Weight Gain

• High Blood Pressure

• Diabetes

• Poor Posture

• Muscle Strain

• Sleep Deprivation

Treatment of Headaches during pregnancy

Follow these tips to get relief from headaches during pregnancy:

• Take proper rest and sleep well.

• Stay Hydrated during the pregnancy period.

• Practice good posture especially in the last trimester of pregnancy.

• Stay physically active. Do exercises regularly.

• Eat a balanced and healthy diet.

(Also read: Risk factors of Rh incompatibility in pregnancy)

Natural Home Remedies to treat headaches during pregnancy

Try these natural home remedies to get relief from headache during pregnancy:

->  Avoid those foods, things, or odor that triggered a headache.

-> Practice a good posture as it'll help to prevent muscle strain on your back and neck especially in the third trimester of pregnancy when your belly grows.

-> Stay physically active and do exercises regularly to keep yourself healthy and fit.

-> Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated during pregnancy. Drink plenty of water every day.

-> Eat a healthy and balanced diet at regular intervals. Don't skip meals as hunger can also cause headaches during pregnancy.

-> Get a massage it'll also help to get relief from headaches.

-> If you're experiencing a sinus headache then apply a warm compress on your eyes and nose.

-> If you're experiencing a tension headache then apply a cold compress on the back of your neck.

-> Take a warm bath or shower to get relief from headaches.

-> Take proper rest. Do yoga and meditation to avoid stress during the pregnancy period.

-> Practice yoga, meditation to avoid stress and anxiety during pregnancy.

When to call your doctor?

• Before taking any medications to treat a headache.

• If your headache is getting worse and persistent.

• If you're experiencing severe headache along with other symptoms such as nausea, swelling, abdominal pain, or blurry vision.

• If any of the natural remedies are not working and your headache doesn't go away from any of the remedies.

• If you have a fever or a stuffy nose.

• If you have the problem of high blood pressure during the pregnancy period.

(Also read: Signs & Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure during pregnancy)

Headaches are a common complication during pregnancy. Most headaches go away on their own or by trying natural remedies. But if you're experiencing a severe headache or having a headache along with other symptoms such as vomiting, nausea or abdominal pain then contact your health care provider immediately. Don't take any medications on your own to treat headaches. Avoid taking any pain killers to treat headaches during the pregnancy period. Take those medications only which are recommended by your health care provider. 

Congratulations on your pregnancy. Enjoy the journey of pregnancy. Here's wishing you all a very happy and healthy pregnancy. May God bless you and your baby.


Also, read other health-related articles :

• How to get rid of stretch marks during pregnancy?

• How to look beautiful after delivery?

• Benefits of Breastfeeding for the mother and the baby

• Causes of Vaginal Pain during pregnancy

• Reasons for Spotting during pregnancy

• Best time to take a pregnancy test

Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information only and should not be used as the basis of patient treatment. The given content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or any diagnosis. Always consult a doctor for more information. Our website doesn't claim responsibility for this information.