Migraine during Pregnancy

Many women experience migraine headaches during pregnancy and it is a common pregnancy side effect. Migraines in pregnancy can cause a lot distress to woman. If you’ve been suffering from migraines before you got pregnant then you will find that your migraine may either improve or may get worse during pregnancy.

 What are migraines?

Unlike normal headaches, migraine headaches are different which typically occurs when the blood vessels in the brain dilate to very uncomfortable levels. This could happen because of the increasing levels of pregnancy hormones during pregnancy. Increased levels of hormones in pregnancy can cause migraine headache in pregnant women.  Some women experience migraines for the first time in pregnancy.  

A migraine headache is characteristically described by a dull pain that worsens with time till eventually the patient feels a strong, pulsating ache normally on one side of the head or temples. A person suffering from migraine will usually also experience vomiting and nausea. Some women may also experience aura, which is the acuity of lights or spots before their eyes. Many women also experience sensitivity to noise and lights.

Migraine headaches will not cause any harm to you or the baby unless it persists for several days or occur very often. Sometimes, migraine headaches are accompanied by vision disturbances and may pose some risks in pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to seek medical intervention so that they can rule out other potential causes that cause headaches and vision problems, such as pre-eclampsia.

How to prevent Migraine Headaches in pregnancy?

While there are no sure shot ways to prevent migraine or any other type of headache, there are many ways to keep them at minimal. Scientists have revealed that there are certain triggers that can stimulate a migraine. These triggers vary from person to person but they often include:

• Wine can cause migraine in some people. Anyways during pregnancy, alcohol must be avoided.
• Some cheese can cause migraine, especially aged cheese.
• Chocolate can cause migraine.
• Excessive stress and anxiety is another reason for migraine.
• Hormonal changes in the body are a factor as well.
• Muscle pain or tension.
• Coffee can cause migraine in some people.
• Changing weather conditions, such as extreme cold or heat.

If you have realized what triggers your migraine then it is best to avoid it as much as you can.

Treating Migraine headaches

Many over the counter drugs are available for migraine headaches but they are not recommended to take during pregnancy. Your doctor may give a prescription that is safe for pregnancy. You may also try sitting in a dark and cool room. Applying a cool compress or an ice pack over the head will constrict blood vessels and reduces migraine. You can also have a cold water shower.  Massage can also help reduce migraine as it reduces stress and anxiety. Acupuncture can be very helpful in relieving even the most severe migraines during pregnancy. 

If you are suffering with too much migraine then you should consult with your doctor. Remember migraines aren’t a cause for concern during pregnancy as they can be easily treated.