Treating Headaches During Pregnancy

by Kimmama | More from this Blogger

12 Nov 2009 09:00 PM

Reacting to whatever life throws you is so much more simple when you are not pregnant. But when you're expecting, suddenly you have to consider every decision in a whole new light. This never more true than when you're deciding whether to take a medication. When your head is pounding, is it okay to just take a pain reliever like aspirin or ibuprofen? Should you consult your doctor? Are there safer ways to cope with a headache?

Between the surge of hormones and the extra blood flow associated with pregnancy, headaches are not that all uncommon. They are especially prevalent during the first and third trimesters. (The second trimester is definitely the easiest of the three, isn't it?)

First of all and most importantly, you should always consult your doctor before popping a new pill, even if it is over-the-counter. With that said, there are some things you can do to prevent and treat headaches naturally, eliminating the need for pill-popping altogether.

To prevent headaches, make sure you are well rested, exercise regularly, practice good posture (poor posture can lead to a tension headache), and eat healthy, well-balanced meals. If you do all these things and still get a headache, try one of these natural remedies:

• * Relax in a dark room and close your eyes. Breathe deeply.
• * Run a washrag under hot water and ring it out. Fold it in half a few times and press it over your eyes/nose.
• * For a tension headache, put a cold pack on the base of your neck.
• * Take a warm shower or bath. Make sure the water is not too hot. You don't want to overheat.
• * Gently massage your temples. Then massage the base of your skull, beginning behind your ears and leading back to your neck. This has always worked wonders for me!

If you notice that your headaches are becoming more and more frequent, are not going away, or seem unusual, talk to your doctor. Headaches during the third trimester could be a result of high blood pressure and a sign of preeclampsia.

Learn more about Kimmama

Kim is a freelance writer and stay at home mom to her 8-month-old son, Micah. She has been married to her husband, Eric, since 2006.

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EvaRose (260) 16 Nov 2009 05:52 PM

I noticed that I had to stay hydrated during pregnancy or I would get headaches. I had to drink a lot of water. I have tried the warm bath, and that did help also.

Natural Delivery

Kimmama (484) 18 Nov 2009 08:48 PM

Dehydration is definitely a cause for headaches! You have to drink so much extra water when you're pregnant, too.