Articles

Key takeaways

• Mild headaches are common in pregnancy, often due to hormones or dehydration.
• Stay hydrated, get enough sleep, and try relaxation techniques to help.
• Plain paracetamol is generally safe, but always check the label for other ingredients.
• Seek urgent medical help for recurring or severe headaches.
• If you experience changes in your vision please seek urgent advice.

Why am I getting headaches during pregnancy?

Headaches are common during pregnancy. They often occur in early pregnancy. These headaches usually improve as your pregnancy progresses.

Mild headaches can be caused by hormones or dehydration. They can also be triggered by tiredness or poor-quality sleep.

Migraine triggers

If you experience migraines, it can help to think about what causes them. Common triggers can include emotional factors, such as stress or anxiety.

Physical triggers can also cause migraines. They might be tiredness or poor sleep. Dietary triggers include dehydration or caffeine.

Environmental triggers can also play a role. These include changes in climate, flickering screens, or strong smells.

How to prevent and manage early pregnancy headaches

There are several things you can do to help prevent headaches. You can also manage them when they occur.

Lifestyle changes

• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
• Try to get enough sleep.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Take regular breaks from looking at screens.

Rest and relax as much as possible. You could try mindfulness. Going for a short walk can also help.

Breathing exercises are another option. Pregnancy yoga or hypnobirthing may also be helpful. Avoiding known triggers for your migraines can also make a difference.

Pain relief options

Paracetamol is the first choice of painkiller if you are pregnant. Take the lowest dose that works for you. Use it for the shortest amount of time possible.

Always follow the instructions on the packet. Your midwife, GP, or pharmacist can offer more advice.

Some people find that sleeping in a dark room can help. Placing cooling strips or a cold flannel on your forehead may also provide relief. Massage or ice packs can also be useful.

Medications to avoid

Some painkillers should not be taken during pregnancy. These include tablets that contain added caffeine. Painkillers containing codeine should also be avoided unless prescribed.

Painkillers that reduce inflammation (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs) are generally not recommended. Their use for pain relief should be avoided. These include ibuprofen or aspirin.

A doctor may prescribe a low dose of aspirin in some cases. Your doctor may prescribe this if you are at risk of certain pregnancy complications. Do not take ibuprofen unless prescribed by your doctor. NSAIDs should be avoided unless prescribed.

Migraine treatment

Speak to your GP or midwife if you have ongoing migraines. If paracetamol is not helping, your GP or midwife might suggest a specific migraine medicine like sumatriptan.

They may also offer medicines to help with feeling or being sick from a migraine. These include cyclizine, prochlorperazine, or metoclopramide.

When to seek help for a headache

Call your midwife, doctor, or hospital maternity unit straight away if you have certain symptoms.

Urgent symptoms

• A very bad headache or persistent headache– or a headache that will not go away.
• Vision problems – such as blurring or seeing flashing lights.
• Pain just below your ribs – an ache or discomfort in your upper abdomen.
• Vomiting – persistent or severe sickness.
• A sudden increase in swelling – of your face and hands, or your feet and ankles.

These symptoms could be a sign of high blood pressure in pregnancy (pregnancy-induced hypertension). They could also be a sign of a serious condition that can happen in pregnancy and after birth (pre-eclampsia). Pre-eclampsia needs to be checked immediately.

Getting it checked and treated quickly is important for the health of you and your baby. Always get medical advice immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

You can call your GP surgery or NHS 111. Your midwife will check your blood pressure at all your antenatal appointments.