Headache Relief During Pregnancy

Finding relief of headache during pregnancy can be a headache. Though your doctor may have banned your usual remedies, some natural therapies may soothe or help avoid pregnancy headaches.

Most pregnancy headaches are tension headaches experienced during the first and third trimesters. Use the following tips to help avoid them:

Regular exercise may reduce both the frequency and severity of pregnancy headaches.

Deep-breathing exercises like meditation, yoga, and biofeedback help you relax.

Avoiding fatigue helps you to stay relaxed and avoid pregnancy headaches. Try to make room for a daily nap.

Drink plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated helps keep muscles “oiled” and relaxed.

Keep your tummy full and eat healthy. Crackers, fruits and fresh vegetables are wholesome snacks that keep your blood sugar up and hunger-headaches away. Avoid sugary snacks, rich foods like cheese, and foods that contain caffeine like coffee, colas, and chocolate.

Use these tips to find relief when pregnancy headache strikes:

Massage - ask your partner to rub your back, neck, and head.

Wash your hair. A shampoo is a great way to relieve tension in neck, shoulder, and back muscles. In addition, a warm shower will help you relax the headache away.

Cold compresses constrict dilated blood vessels to soothe throbbing pregnancy headaches. If you can’t use a compress, try splashing some cold water on your face.

Tight-feeling headaches (caused by over-constricted blood vessels) and some migraines retreat when you apply a warm compress.

Although headache is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy, it may be a sign of a more serious problem. Consult your doctor when:

You experience a severe headache during your second or third trimester.

You have the “headache of a lifetime”. This can be a sudden violent headache, one that increases in intensity, or one that refuses to go away.