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These are a pain in more ways than one because there’s not much you can take aside from a paracetamol, which lets face it, is about as effective as riding a Penny Farthing in the Grand Prix – it doesn’t actually do much! A combination of hormonal changes, low blood sugar levels and alterations to blood circulation are all to blame for headaches in pregnancy.
*The information on this site is purely holistic and does not replace medical advice. If you have a medical problem or are concerned, please see your health professional.
Suggestions from the Maternity Network:
- Peppermint oil contains a mild, local anesthetic and several studies have shown that it is one of the most effective headache busters. Try mixing 5–7 drops of peppermint, with 1 drop of eucalyptus in a base of 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Rub a bit of this on your temples, neck or wherever the pain is (although we can’t guarantee for the last suggestion, whether there’s enough in a bottle to apply on your partner!).
- Many headaches begin with muscle tension around the jaw and neck. This can be caused by stress or by just sitting in one position at a desk all day. Tense muscles restrict blood flow to the head, which can result in pain.
- Give your muscles a break by getting up regularly, take a few slow, deep breaths to oxygenate those muscles and have a good but gentle stretch.
- If there’s an onsite therapist at work, enlist them to give you a neck and/or head rub. The more attractive looking, the better!
- Headaches are more likely on hot days when the extra weight and blood you are carrying makes you feel sticky and tired. Drink plenty of fluids and make sure the room you’re in is well ventilated.
- Homeopathic remedies: Gelsemium 6C – ideal for band-like pain over the eyes made worse by heat and movement.
Phosphorous 6C – perfect for head pain brought on by atmospheric changes or shock, and made better from rest and food.
Nux vomica 6C – no, not a Latin chant. This one’s for headaches which occur first thing in the morning but get better as the day wears on.
- Warm compression across your forehead and eyes.
- Exercise – gentle and regular to stimulate circulation.
- Regular healthy eating. Avoid binging on rubbish!
- Go back to bed. Yes, you heard!
- Take regular breaks from the computer.
- Reflexology – put pressure on the tips of your thumbs or big toes, the headache should go immediately so keep the pressure on for a while.
- If you've tried everything to no avail, your doctor may recommend paracetamol which is generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Suggestions from experienced mums:
- Go back to bed. Again!
- Pregnancy can exaggerate adverse reactions to some foods. If you are able to link your headaches to a type of food, leave it out of your diet.
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