Headaches are a symptom that only you can diagnose, and they are super common during pregnancy. Most headaches during pregnancy are totally expected and harmless. Still, if the frequency or intensity of your headaches increases or you have a headache with other symptoms, it is important to get medical care right away. In rare cases, the cause of some headaches can be serious conditions like preeclampsia, anemia and toxoplasmosis.
What causes headaches?
Mild headaches that come with pregnancy could be attributed to a number of factors, including low blood sugar, sleep deprivation, surging hormones, dehydration, and stress. Some parents report their headaches taper off as the first trimester ends, but for other folks, they are still common throughout the rest of pregnancy.
Tips for managing headaches during pregnancy
Risks and benefits of any medication or supplement in pregnancy vary from person to person, so you should talk to your healthcare provider before deciding on a plan to treat your headaches. Because of this, you may want to try to manage your headaches without medication. Getting enough sleep, eating well, staying hydrated, and regular exercise as recommended by your healthcare provider are good places to start. Some people may find additional benefits in stress relief, checking their most recent eyewear prescription, and getting rest as soon as symptoms start.
Reviewed by the Ovia Health Clinical Team
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Sources
- Yvonne Butler Tobah. “What can I do about headaches during pregnancy? I’d rather not take medication.” Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, 8/11/2015. Web.
