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Headaches And Migraine You may experience more tension headaches during pregnancy due to sleep disturbances, nausea and vomiting, and stress (emotional and physical). You may have fewer tension headaches in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of your pregnancy as your body (and mind) adjust to your pregnancy.
You may hesitate to take medication for headaches during pregnancy. Try any of the following medicine-free techniques for headache relief
- Use deep-breathing exercises and relaxation techniques.
- Drink plenty of fluids so you don't become dehydrated.
- Close your eyes, and rest in a quiet place.
- Eat regularly.
- Avoid foods or substances, such as cheese, chocolate and caffeine, that can cause headaches.
- Apply an ice pack to the back of your head.
- Get enough sleep.
If your headache doesn't go away using these techniques, you may take regular or extra-strength acetaminophen (Tylenol). If this doesn't help, call your doctor.
Migraine Headaches
A migraine headache is characterized by severe, throbbing pain and is aggravated by physical activity, such as walking. Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea often accompany a migraine headache.
Some women who regularly experience migraines do not suffer from them during pregnancy; others have worse migraine headaches, especially in the 1 st trimester. For some, the 2nd and 3rd trimesters are migraine-free.
You can attempt to deal with migraine headaches without medicine. Lie in a darkened room with a cold compress on your forehead. Try various relaxation methods, such as listening to relaxation tapes, doing deep-breathing exercises or practicing meditation/yoga exercises. Avoid things that might trigger a migraine-aged cheese, cured meat, chocolate, caffeine, cigarette or cigar smoke, bright lights, stress or disruptions in sleeping or eating patterns. If these measures don't help, talk with your physician; he or she will prescribe the safest medication available. Do not take any medication, other than acetaminophen, for a migraine headache without discussing it first with your doctor.
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