Pregnancy brings a whirlwind of changes, both exciting and challenging. Among these, headaches can be an unexpected and frustrating symptom for many women. Whether it's a dull ache or a pounding sensation, dealing with headaches while pregnant can be uncomfortable and, at times, concerning. Understanding what’s normal and when to seek advice can help ease the worry. We spoke to our expert Dr Gandhali Deorukhkar, Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, who explained common causes of pregnancy headaches, how to manage them, and when they might signal something more serious.
Causes Of Headaches During Pregnancy
“During pregnancy, your body undergoes a significant number of changes, both hormonal and physiological, that can lead to headaches. In the early stages of pregnancy, hormonal fluctuations, particularly the rise in oestrogen and progesterone play a big role in causing headaches,” said Dr Deorukhkar.
These hormones affect your blood vessels, sometimes causing them to dilate, which can lead to tension or migraine headaches. Additionally, increased blood volume, which helps nourish the developing baby, can also contribute to headaches.
According to a 2023 study, headaches are a common symptom during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and they require careful attention since they may sometimes indicate a life-threatening condition. Studies show that headaches affect up to 35% of pregnant women. Women are generally more prone to headaches, especially migraines, compared to men due to differences in oestrogen levels.
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Types Of Headache
- Tension headaches are the most common type experienced by pregnant women. These headaches often feel like a tight band or constant pressure around the forehead, temples, or back of the head. Fatigue, dehydration, stress, and poor posture can all exacerbate tension headaches. The discomfort may be mild or moderate, but in most cases, these headaches are harmless and can be managed with some simple lifestyle changes.
- Migraines, while less common, may also occur during pregnancy. They tend to be more intense and are often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound. If you’ve had migraines before pregnancy, there’s a chance they might improve or worsen due to hormonal shifts.
When to Be Concerned
“While most pregnancy-related headaches are benign, it’s crucial to recognise when a headache might be a symptom of something more serious. If you experience sudden, severe headaches, especially in the second or third trimester, it could be a sign of a condition like preeclampsia,” warned Dr Deorukhkar.
It is a serious pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure, which can lead to damage to vital organs, such as the liver or kidneys. It usually occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy, but can also develop earlier or postpartum. Other symptoms of preeclampsia may include swelling, vision changes, or pain in the upper abdomen. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if such a situation arises.
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Managing Headaches With Natural Remedies
If you find yourself dealing with mild headaches during pregnancy, the good news is that there are plenty of natural, safe ways to manage them.
- Dehydration: Drink enough water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Being well-hydrated helps regulate your body’s systems and prevent headaches.
- Fatigue and lack of sleep: Prioritise sleep and rest, especially when tired. Adequate sleep can help reduce tension in the body, which may lessen headaches.
- Hunger and blood sugar drops: Eating small, regular meals can prevent dips in blood sugar levels that may trigger headaches.
- Stress: Reducing stress through prenatal yoga, deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle stretching can be incredibly helpful.
“Other effective remedies include applying a cold or warm compress to your forehead or the back of your neck, taking a warm bath, or getting a gentle massage. These techniques help relax tense muscles and ease headache discomfort. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any medications, as certain pain relievers, like ibuprofen, are not considered safe during pregnancy,” highlighted Dr Deorukhkar.
Bottomline
Dr Deorukhkar concluded, “While most headaches during pregnancy are harmless and manageable, it’s important to stay aware of any sudden or severe symptoms. Hence, always discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider to ensure both your health and the health of your baby.”
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]