Remedies to Deal with Headaches During Pregnancy

Headaches during pregnancy are common, but they can be managed easily to avoid further triggers like stress. Certain natural remedies may provide relief during this time, such as applying cold compresses to the back of the neck, massage, or deep breathing. While these natural tips work great, there are several other pregnancy remedies to deal with headaches, which we will discuss in this guide.

What Causes Headaches During Pregnancy?

The exact cause of headaches during pregnancy is not known. However, the factors that may contribute to this condition are: 

1. Changing blood volume and hormone levels in the first trimester.
2. Stress, fatigue, or eye strain may also cause a dull headache.
3. A runny nose or nasal congestion in early pregnancy may cause sinus headaches.
4. Low blood sugar levels and hunger may trigger headaches.
5. People who suddenly stop their morning caffeinated drinks like coffee may experience caffeine withdrawal headaches.
6. Vomiting and nausea in early pregnancy may lead to dehydration and cause a headache.

Pregnancy Tips to Manage Headaches

There are several ways to prevent or get relief from headaches. This involves following certain tips for pain management in pregnancy, such as:

• Be Aware of Headache Triggers

If certain odors or food items have triggered a headache in the past, make sure to stay away from them. Alternatively, you may keep a headache journal to note any other things that seem to set off your pain. You may also share the journal with your healthcare professional to find more headache triggers.

• Include Physical Activity in Your Daily Routine

Try a daily walk or some moderate exercises during your pregnancy. Find other healthy ways to cope with your stress. For example, you could find time to do a hobby you enjoy or simply talk to a friend. If you feel like you have too much stress, make sure to talk with a mental healthcare professional.

• Practice Relaxation Techniques

Try meditation, yoga, massage, or deep breathing. Lie on your side rather than face down when getting a massage. Make sure that the massage therapist knows you're pregnant to prevent any pregnancy complications.

• Eat Regularly

Eat regularly scheduled meals and make sure to follow a balanced diet to help prevent headaches. Drink plenty of too while following a regular sleep schedule. A lack of sleep might also play a role in headaches during pregnancy.

• Consider Biofeedback

This particular technique teaches you to control your body's functions, such as breathing patterns and heart rate. It may help prevent headaches and also ease headache pain. Speak to your healthcare professional if you want to try biofeedback to treat your headaches during pregnancy.

When to See a Healthcare Provider?

If you're having a severe headache or experiencing headaches regularly, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider. If natural remedies cannot provide you with enough headache relief, you can try talking to your healthcare provider about any other possible medications to try. If your headaches get worse or are more persistent, seek evaluation right away.