Sadly, headaches can be common in early pregnancy. Why this is so is not known for certain. It is thought it may be because of hormone changes and increased blood volume in pregnancy. As well though pregnancy can be a time of anxiety and stress, fatigue, poor sleep, and these can be contributing factors. If a woman stops her usual coffee (no need) then she can experience caffeine withdrawal headaches. In early pregnancy morning sickness with nausea and vomiting can cause a degree of dehydration which can also bring on a headache. Hunger and low levels of blood sugar can trigger headaches. Sinus headaches can be more common in pregnancy because if increased blood flow in the mucous membrane of the nasal passages causing nasal congestion.

Headaches are usually less frequent as your pregnancy goes on.

They do not harm your baby, but they are upsetting and uncomfortable for you.

Migraine headaches are a common in pregnancy. These painful, throbbing headaches are often felt on one side of the head and are thought to result from expansion of the blood vessels in the brain. They sometimes  are accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. Some women also have an aura with the migraine. They see flashes of light or feel tingling in their arms and legs. Migraines during pregnancy are not usually a pregnancy concern.

A headache after 20 weeks of pregnancy can sometimes be a symptom of pre-eclampsia, which can lead to serious complications if it is not monitored and treated.

What can you do about headaches in pregnancy?

  • Firstly, if after 20 weeks and you have a severe headache then your blood pressure and urine need to be checked and blood tests done urgently to exclude symptomatic preeclampsia. You should phone the Birth(ing) Unit. Other signs of symptomatic preeclampsia are problems with vision, such as blurring or seeing flashing lights and epigastric pain. If your blood pressure is excessively high then you can have eclampsia (seizures) which has very serious health implications.
  • Avoid possible headache triggers. Try to get more rest and sleep, drink adequate fluids, avoid stress, treat sinusitis (if relevant).
  • Try a remedial massage especially of the neck and back of head to help with tension headaches.
  • Try a cold pack to help with tension headaches.
  • If excessive frequency of headaches, especially if severe, you may need to see a headache specialist doctor (neurologist). This will be to check of other uncommon causes for the headaches and management advise.
  • If your headache is a migraine, rest in a cool, dark room with no noise and sleep. Try using warm or cold compresses or an ice pack. Staying away from possible triggers, such as certain foods and stress. If very severe migraine you may need to attend the hospital A&E Department.
  • Medications can help. Medications such as paracetamol is safe. You can take up to two tablets each 4 – 6 hours. Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as Nurofen or Voltaren. Some prescription medications are safe. Your GP will advise. Some prescription migraine medications are safe.

Book an appointment now

  • Monday all day 9.00am to 4.30pm
  • Tuesday all day 9.00am to 4.30pm
  • Wednesday all day 9.00am to 4.30pm
  • Thursday morning 9.00am to 12.30pm
  • Thursday alternate afternoons 2.00pm to 4.30pm
  • Friday alternate mornings 9.00am to 1.00pm
  • Friday afternoon 2.00pm to 4.30pm
  • Saturday mornings 9.30am to 12.00 midday*

*Saturday morning appointments are not available for initial antenatal visit.