During pregnancy, a mother’s body has to adjust across the circulatory system, hormones, and metabolism, which can lead to various unfamiliar symptoms. One of these is “migraine headaches during pregnancy,” which can occur in the first, second, or third trimester. This may involve one-sided headaches—on the left or right side—or even pain at the back of the head.
Although migraines are not directly harmful to the fetus, severe or frequent pain can prevent the mother from getting enough rest, increase stress, and raise blood pressure, which may elevate the risk of complications such as preeclampsia. Therefore, knowing safe ways to manage migraines is very important.
Common Causes of Migraine in Pregnancy
Migraines occur due to abnormalities in brain and blood vessel function, triggered by various factors. In pregnant people, hormones play a key role.
Main causes during pregnancy:
- Significant hormonal changes – Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone affect blood vessels in the brain and sensitivity to triggers.
- Insufficient rest – Especially in the third trimester when the belly is larger.
- Dehydration or skipping meals – The body requires more fluids and energy, and lack of these can trigger migraines.
- External triggers – Strong smells, loud noises, bright lights, or sudden changes in the weather.
- Emotional stress – Worries about childbirth or caring for the baby.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that hormonal changes and insufficient sleep are the main causes of migraines in pregnancy. It is also recommended to avoid triggers such as consuming more than 200 mg of caffeine per day and exposure to bothersome smells or lights.
Symptoms of Migraine in Pregnancy
Recognizing the characteristics of migraines helps pregnant people distinguish them from headaches caused by other factors.
Key symptoms of migraine in pregnancy:
- Pulsating pain on one side (left or right side of the head)
- Aura symptoms such as flashing lights, double vision, or blurred vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
The American Headache Society (AHS) recommends keeping a headache diary, which can help mothers identify triggers such as food, sleep patterns, or stress, and adjust behaviors accordingly.
Symptom variations by trimester
- First trimester: Hormones fluctuate significantly, leading to frequent headaches, especially in the morning or after waking up.
- Second trimester: Hormone levels stabilize, but headaches may still occur due to posture or stress.
- Third trimester: Increased belly weight and changes in posture may cause pain in the back of the head and neck.
According to NICE (UK), if headache patterns change or are accompanied by neurological symptoms, a thorough examination is necessary to rule out serious conditions such as preeclampsia or stroke.
How to Relieve Migraine in Pregnancy Without Medication
Since many medications are unsafe for the fetus, natural and behavioral methods are the first-line options for managing headaches during pregnancy.
Safe migraine relief techniques:
- Stay hydrated – Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water per day
- Eat on time – Avoid trigger foods such as chocolate, coffee, and processed meats
- Sleep well – Maintain a consistent sleep and wake schedule
- Cold compress – Apply to temples, forehead, or back of the head for 15–20 minutes
- Light exercise – Walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga. Research by Lemmens et al., 2019 shows that aerobic exercise three times a week significantly reduces migraine days, while a study by John et al., 2007 found that three months of yoga reduces migraine frequency and intensity and improves mood.
- Manage stress – Practice deep breathing, meditation, or listen to relaxing music
- Avoid triggers – Bright lights, strong smells, loud noises
AHS also notes that magnesium (magnesium oxide) may help prevent migraines in some cases, but should be taken under medical supervision.
Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention
Most migraines during pregnancy are not dangerous, but sometimes they can signal a serious condition. Go to the hospital immediately if you experience:
- Sudden, severe headache
- Headache accompanied by high blood pressure
- Blurred or double vision, weakness in arms or legs, or seizures
- Headache with high fever
The WHO warns that headaches accompanied by blurred vision and swelling in the hands or feet may indicate preeclampsia and require urgent medical attention.
Managing Migraine in Pregnancy Safely
Migraine headaches during pregnancy do not directly harm the baby, but neglecting them can affect the mother’s health and increase the risk of other complications. Behavioral adjustments—such as staying hydrated, getting enough rest, avoiding trigger foods, and doing light exercise—can safely relieve symptoms.
Both ACOG and AHS agree that managing migraines in pregnancy should prioritize non-medication methods, and medications should only be used when necessary under a doctor’s guidance.
Originally published on theAsianparent Thailand
