Migraine Headaches during Pregnancy: Symptoms, Types, and Relief Options

Author :-

Dr.Amulya

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Introduction: Understanding migraine headaches during pregnancy

Migraine Headaches in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Types, and Relief Options Pregnancy is characterised by excitement, aches, and pains in the body. Constant headaches, particularly for women, can disrupt most cases, with migraines posing a significant challenge. Headaches cause significant distress due to the limited treatment options available during pregnancy. At least one episode of migraine happens in about 39% of women. Today, we will discuss headaches during pregnancy and their types, causes, symptoms, and relief. This will enable us to provide comprehensive coverage based on the most reliable data, thereby offering safe and effective solutions for expectant mothers.

What is a migraine?

This includes migraines, a classic neurological disorder characterised by intense throbbing pain in a specific part of the head that can persist for hours or days, and headaches that often accompany symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and an aversion to light and sound. Various stages of pregnancy, or rather variations in hormonal and physical changes, may precipitate or worsen migraines, and therefore some form of management is essential for superb maternal health.

The Difference Between Regular Headaches and Migraines in Pregnancy

However, it's crucial to understand that not every pain pregnant women experience is a migraine. This is true because the most common cause of dull, aching pains is a tension headache, which lacks the severity and accompanying symptoms of a migraine. Migraines are much more debilitating and could keep a patient from being fully functional for routine activities, especially during pregnancy, where stress, hormonal imbalances, and fatigue are all prevalent.

Common migraine symptoms

One side of your head may throb at times.

Nausea and even vomiting
Sensitivity to light, sound, and smells
You may have flashes of lights or blind spots in your field of vision, often referred to as an aura.
You may feel dizzy or lightheaded.

Identifying migraine symptoms during pregnancy

Migraines change during pregnancy. Women either experience fewer or more frequent migraine attacks. Your warning signs play a crucial role in managing your migraine attacks.

The symptoms of migraine may vary during each trimester.

First Trimester: Hormonal, stress-related, and morning sicknesses account for the majority of migraines at this stage.

Second Trimester: Ironically, due to the balancing hormones, women do not experience severe migraines during this period. However, dehydration and high blood pressure can sometimes be associated with headaches.

Third Trimester: The final stages of pregnancy tend to trigger other aches and strains in the body, incorrect postures, and sleeping.

Different Types of Migraines (With Aura, Without Aura, etc.)

Generally, there are two types of migraines. There are two types of migraines: those with auras and those without auras. Migraine with Aura: This type of migraine consists of visual aches triggered by light flashes, zigzag patterns, or blind spots. Auras can even affect one's speech and give such pins and needles feelings in the body.

Migraine Without Aura: Migraines can occur without any visual or sensory symptoms. The pains on one side of the head in cases of migraines without aura are more severe.

How Migraines Can Change During Pregnancy

Some patients alter the pattern of their migraine with pregnancy. Most patients report that their migraine frequency decreases during pregnancy, and when it does occur, it becomes much milder in the second and third trimesters. However, some patients may experience a worsening of their migraine frequency or severity due to hormonal changes.

Pregnancy headaches: causes and triggers

What Causes Migraines During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy triggers migraines due to a multitude of factors. The most basic cause is the change in hormonal levels. In essence, changes in Estrogen levels cause headaches during pregnancy. Some of them include stress, dehydration, changes in sleep, and diet.

Hormonal changes and their impact on headaches in pregnancy

Oestrogen is also a common cause of migraines. At this stage of pregnancy, there is a significant increase in Estrogen levels, typically during the first trimester, which causes tension headaches. However, women experience a significant decline in these attacks during the second trimester, as the hormone level stabilizes.

Common triggers for pregnancy migraines

Stress and anxiety
Sleep and rest deprivation
Dehydration
Caffeine withdrawal
Food like chocolate or cheese, processed food
Photophobia and olfactory hypersensitivity

First Trimester Headaches: What to Expect

All of this hormonal shift, coupled with the exhaustion you're experiencing, will contribute to morning sickness, which is already causing headaches, including migraines. These headache sufferers are likely to report that their headaches have become worse.

I am coping with hormonal changes and fatigue-induced headaches.

Hydrate and stay healthy.
Rest and reduce stress.
Relaxation techniques like prenatal yoga or meditation are beneficial.

Pregnancy causes headaches in the second trimester.

What Causes Second Trimester Headaches?

At this point, Estrogen balances, and it has a much lower chance of actually causing a headache. Dehydration, fluctuations in blood pressure, and stress can also trigger a headache.

Managing Stress and Blood Pressure-Related Headaches

Follow blood pressure.
Start relaxation breathing exercises.
Rehydrate and rest on schedule.

The third trimester of pregnancy can cause headaches.

The final stages of pregnancy can cause migraines and headaches.

The third-trimester headaches, along with the general poor postures and a distended abdomen, cause physiological stress. Sleep disturbances will also occur due to nervous anticipation of delivery.

How Physical Strain and Posture May Contribute to Third-Trimester Headaches

Use pregnancy pillows to support positioning.
Get up frequently to stand or change one's sitting position.
Relieve the stress with gentle exercises like prenatal yoga.

Migraine Relief Options: Safe Treatments During Pregnancy

How to Treat Migraines Safely While Pregnant

Pregnancy can be quite confusing at times, particularly when dealing with migraines, as most women fear using medications that require a doctor's prescription.

Medications for Migraines During Pregnancy: What is Safe?

Acetaminophen (Tylenol): The safest in pregnancy
Avoid Aspirin and Ibuprofen, unless prescribed, at least during the third trimester.
Only under strict medical supervision should one administer triptans.

Natural migraine remedies for pregnancy

Home Remedies to Relieve Migraines During Pregnancy

Ice packs on your head and neck alleviate swelling.
Magnesium supplements through diet may alleviate the soothing effect during the migraine.
Ginger tea helps stimulate nausea.
Natural DIY remedies are available to relieve pregnancy headaches.
Sleep in the darkest room.
Relax by using lavender oil or peppermint oil.
Drinking enough water will contribute to your hydration.

Make lifestyle changes to prevent or reduce the frequency of migraines.

Establish a sleep routine, and use it.
Eat foods that don't cause headaches and steer clear of their causes.
Some forms of exercise involve transcoding practices that typically promote relaxation.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Pregnancy Headaches

Other risk conditions that might expose a pregnant woman to a migraine or headache that may be severe will make you rush to visit your doctor with questions. Top on the list, of course, will be preeclampsia.

Signs: Your migraine or headache requires immediate medical help

Severe visual disturbances
Hands, feet, or faces may experience sudden, severe swelling.
Hypertension

Migraine Complications in Pregnancy: Preeclampsia and Other Concerns

Preeclampsia is characterised by hypertension and some degree of organ damage. The term 'preeclampsia' refers to the general development of such symptoms following the onset of a headache. Ignoring preeclampsia can lead to more catastrophic tragedies for the baby, despite the extreme danger it poses to the mother. You should always refer to a health provider whenever you suspect preeclampsia.

Conclusion

Pregnancy can complicate migraines, so it's important to take proper measures to manage them. A pregnant woman may understand the causes of her migraines and take appropriate preventive measures and safe remedies to enhance her quality of life. You should first seek consultation from your healthcare provider before undergoing treatment.

FAQs

1. Do most pregnant women have migraines during pregnancy?

Even though they may be milder, migraines affect 39% of pregnant women.

2. Can I take medication for my migraines during pregnancy?

Acetaminophen is relatively safe, but always consult your OB/GYN before taking any medication.

3. How can I prevent migraines during pregnancy?

Stay hydrated, avoid precipitating factors, sleep enough, and reduce stress with relaxation techniques.

4. How soon should I consult my doctor about a headache during pregnancy?

If your headache is acute with such symptoms as distortion of vision, hypertension, or swelling, come and see your OB/GYN right away.

5. How will my pregnancy affect the baby?

The disease itself is harmless, but conditions that provoke such serious headaches as in the case of preeclampsia may become harmful for both mother and baby.