Headaches and Pregnancy

by on December 17, 2009

Headaches generally occur more often in woman who are pregnant because of the hormonal changes and increased blood flow. Fatigue and stress can also contribute, as can too much caffeine.
 
Approximately 20% of women will experience headaches while being pregnant and most find that they occur less in the last few months. Although they can worsen after the baby is born.
 
Treatment of headaches in pregnancy may include soothing and non-drug measures such as cold packs, darkened room, and sleep.
 
If your headache is due to tension, try applying cold compresses to aches along the back of your neck. Balanced, healthy diets, eaten in several small meals a day can help reduce headaches.
 
If you have a sinus headache, apply warm compresses to your head in such places as the front of your face on either side of the nose, in the middle of the forehead, and on the temples. These areas are occupied by the sinuses.
 
Try relaxation exercises, such as closing your eyes and imagining yourself in a peaceful place. Reducing stress is a key to a healthy pregnancy. If you feel that the methods you have used to reduce stress have been inadequate, or even if you just want someone to talk to, you may want to ask your doctor for a referral to a counselor or therapist.
 
Talk to your doctor before taking pain relievers, even if you have taken over the counter medicines such as ibuprofen or aspirin for pain before you were pregnant. Acetaminophen is usually safe during pregnancy, but again, it is best not to use medications unless your doctor has prescribed them.


Related Reading:

Equate Extra Strength Pain Reliever Pm  200-Count
Rite Aid Pain Reliever/Pain Reliever Aid, Headache Formula, Extra Strength, Coated Tablets, 100 ct
Headache Reliever Gel Packs - Set of 3
Walgreens Tension Headache Pain Reliever Coated Caplets, 100 ea
BC Pain Reliever/Fever Reducer Powder, New Formula, 50-Count Packages (Pack of 4)

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