Migraines

There are a few side effects that come hand in hand with being pregnant. Here we look at headaches and pregnancy.

The increase in frequency of headaches while pregnant is considered to be due to additional blood flow and changes to your hormones. Other factors, such as increased in stress levels and excess caffeine, also contribute.

Almost 20% of women will incur headaches during their pregnancy, although in most cases they will find they will happen less in the latter months of the pregnancy.

Various non drug measures can help alleviate the headaches including being in a dark room, cold packs, soothing and sleep.

Tension can cause headaches. if this is the case you can apply cold compresses to the back of your neck. Ensuring you have a healthy diet, possibly across a lot of smaller meals during the day can also help.

For sinus headaches, you can put a warm compress to your head in places like the front of your face and on each side of your nose, the centre of the forehead and temples.

Close your eyes and think of being in a peaceful place as a reduction in stress will help you have a healthy pregnancy. Doctors, therapists and counselors can also offer good advice if the methods you are trying to reduce stress are not working.

Contact your doctor prior to consuming any medication, even over the counter ones like ibuprofen and aspirin. acetaminophen can be safe to take while pregnant, although it is still better to consult your doctor first.