Why pregnancy headaches need special attention

Feb 12, 2009 7:12 AM by Dr. Joseph Rotella, MD, DC

Posted in Health & Wellness / Women's Health / Conditions

Headaches &
Pregnancy

Headaches are a common complaint among pregnant women, and any woman who is suffering from them, whether they began before or during pregnancy, requires special attention, as there are different concerns for the mother and the growing fetus. Both primary headaches, such as migraine and tension-type headaches, and other secondary headaches that mimic them are often reported among pregnant women.

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The following items will help you incorporate lifestyle changes that can drastically reduce migraine frequency:

Get Regular Sleep

Go to bed and wake up at regular internals

Avoid sleeping excessively on weekends and less during weekdays

Get 6 to 8 hours of sleep per night

Eat Regular meals

Low blood sugar can trigger a headache

Excessive sugar may lead to rapid increase in blood sugar followed by low blood sugar that can trigger headache

Eat small regular meals 3 to 5 times per day to include a balance between protein, fruits, vegetables and carbohydrates

Moderate Exercise

Exercise 3 to 5 times per week will help reduce stress and keep you physically and mentally fit

Too much exercise or inconsistent patterns may trigger headache

Drink plenty of water because dehydration may trigger headache

Limit caffeine – caffeine is a stimulant and caffeine withdrawal may cause headaches

Stress management

Limit stress since stress may lead to an increase in headache

Relaxation and stress management may help reduce headaches

There is hope for reducing your headaches. If you are experience headaches while pregnant, please discuss this with your OB/Gyn or primary care provider so that they can determine an effective and safe plan for treatment.

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