Headaches During Pregnancy: When to See Your Health Care Provider

If you are currently pregnant, you may be experiencing headaches more often than usual. These headaches may come in the form of tension headaches, sinus headaches, migraine headaches or cluster headaches that form on one side of the head. While they are not usually cause for concern, it is still a good idea to understand when it’s time to consult a health care provider about headaches during pregnancy.

For instance, if you start experiencing severe headaches around 20 weeks of pregnancy, it could be a sign that you have preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a condition that causes you to have consistent high blood pressure in your second trimester and onwards. This high blood pressure may cause issues with the kidneys, lungs and liver and can put you at risk for seizures. Learn how to recognize preeclampsia symptoms so that you’ll know when it’s time for treatment.

Common Causes of Headaches During Pregnancy

Many women experience headaches during pregnancy, and you don’t necessarily need to be concerned for your health just because you get headaches regularly. It is common to experience a headache during pregnancy in the first trimester due to an increase in blood volume.

Other common causes of headache include:

1. Changes in hormone levels. Changing hormones play a massive role in your pregnancy, and they can cause you to have headaches more often.
2. Lack of sleep. You are more likely to get a headache if you aren’t sleeping well. Up to 80% of women experience insomnia during pregnancy, so your headache could be attributed to poor sleep.
3. Low blood sugar. Low blood sugar levels, also known as hypoglycemia, can cause you to feel dizzy and lightheaded.
4. Stress. It is normal for you to feel stressed and anxious during pregnancy, as stress often accompanies major life changes. Still, stress may contribute to your headaches.
5. Caffeine withdrawal. Limit caffeine intake to 200 mg daily (that’s about two cups of coffee).

“Fortunately, there are many natural remedies for headaches during pregnancy that you can turn to if your headaches worsen,” Maggie Bisceglia, certified registered nurse practitioner at Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialists says. “For instance, adequate water intake, Tylenol with a small amount of caffeine and getting plenty of rest. Moderate-level exercise can also be used to treat headaches.”

If you experience migraine headaches with triggers including bright lights and stress, try resting in a dark room or applying cold compresses to the area where your head hurts. Scalp massages may help relieve tension and stress. Finally, you can help prevent headaches if you sit up straight and drink plenty of fluids.

Read More: What Is the Best Way to Get Rid of a Headache?

When It’s Time to Contact a Health Care Provider

While headaches are common in early pregnancy, certain headache symptoms may be a sign of preeclampsia or another underlying condition. Roughly 5%-10% of women experience preeclampsia, which often brings throbbing headaches.

You should contact your health care provider if you experience any of the following new symptoms:

1. Sensitivity to light
2. Blurred vision accompanied by flashing lights
3. Nausea, vomiting or dizziness
4. Pain in the upper right belly area or in the shoulder
5. Anxiety and shortness of breath

If your health care provider suggests treatment for the type of headache you experience, they may tell you to avoid certain painkillers. Medications that contain codeine or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can be dangerous for pregnant women. Your health care provider may recommend paracetamol, which is safe to take for a short time but should not be relied upon as long-term treatment.

Read More: Health After Delivery: Postpartum Preeclampsia and Other Concerns

Are you expecting a baby soon? Learn how our Maternity Care, Labor and Delivery Services can best serve you.