Natural Remedies for Headaches During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is something very beautiful and the happiest phase of life, but it is a journey in which a person faces many changes in her body, which include physical as well as emotional changes. One of the common issues that are faced by mothers-to-be is headaches. Some of them face occasionally, while other faces frequently. The common reasons for headaches during pregnancy are stress, hormonal changes, or lifestyle habits. 

People usually prefer to have painkillers to get rid of headaches. However, many medicines are not safe for the baby, so it is better to take medicines with care. Natural remedies are given priority before any medicines due to their side effects on the baby. The remedies are safe, gentle, and effective, which helps reduce headaches without any side effects.

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Why Do Headaches Happen During Pregnancy? 

Depending upon the month of pregnancy, headaches may happen for various reasons: 

•  First trimester (early months): Hormonal changes, morning sickness, dehydration, and sudden lifestyle adjustments are the various reasons for headaches during the early stages. 
•  Second trimester: During this stage, headaches are least common, but if they occur, it is due to stress, posture changes, or lack of rest. 
•   Third trimester (later months): This is the most common stage in which headaches may occur frequently. It is due to Extra body weight, disturbed sleep, and high blood pressure. 

Other Common Causes Include: 

•  Not having plenty of water, which is actually required by the body, causes dehydration. 
•  Skipping meals is one of the most common reasons for headaches.
•  Insufficient sleep or a disturbed sleeping schedule
•  Stress and emotional tension
•  Eye pain from more than enough screen time.
•  Reduction of caffeine products, such as tea or coffee, from your diet.

Safe and Natural Remedies for Headaches During Pregnancy – 

Natural Remedies can provide gentle relief from headaches. Therefore, it is advisable to switch to natural remedies before directly choosing medicines.

Listed below are some common natural remedies: 

•  Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water required by the body to prevent dehydration.
•  Rest and sleep: A Good sleeping schedule should be maintained, including short naps to reduce frequent headaches. 
•  Eat small, frequent meals: It helps maintain normal sugar levels and prevents headaches. 
•  Apply a cold or warm compress: Cold packs on the forehead or a warm cloth on the neck help relax the muscles.
• Gentle massage: Warm, gentle massage on the neck, shoulders, and forehead area helps in relaxation. 
• Practice relaxation techniques: Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga help in relaxing the body as well as the mind. 
• Keep a check on screen time: Reduce eye pain   by taking short breaks from phones, laptops, and TVs, and maintain a favorable screen time.
•  Maintain good posture: Sitting upright supports the spine and prevents stress headaches. It must be focused especially on the later stages of pregnancy.
•  Use aromatherapy: Lavender and peppermint essential oils, which are light and considered safe, may help lower back pain.

Dos and Don’ts During Pregnancy Headache 

 Things You Should Do –

•   8-10 glasses of water should be at least consumed regularly.
•   Keep a note on triggering headaches
•    Perform light stretching and prenatal yoga exercises.
•    Listen to Relaxing music and perform meditation
•    Take short breaks from work and include short naps in your routine.
•    Avoid too much styling in hair and wear comfortable clothes

Things to Avoid: 

•     Avoid dieting and skipping meals.
•    Consume caffeine according to the amount suggested by the doctors.
•    Avoid strong smells of perfumes and chemicals that increase headaches.
•    Do not take medicines without a doctor’s prescription.
•     Avoid working for too long a time without breaks.

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When Should You See a Doctor? 

Although many headaches are normal during pregnancy but sometimes they may be a serious condition. It is often during later stages of pregnancy, so one should consult a doctor immediately if required: 

•  The headache is sudden and extreme
•  Occurs with blurred vision or dizziness.
•  Experience of swelling in the hands, feet, or face.
•  High blood pressure or chest pain.

The above conditions may give signs of preeclampsia, which means a complication situation in which the patient needs immediate doctors supervision.

Conclusion-

Simple and Natural remedies can help cure headaches during pregnancy. Some lifestyle changes, such as having enough water, good sleep, and a healthy diet with some relaxation techniques, can make a huge difference. This is the easiest way of caring for oneself with love. 

Although Natural remedies are the best solution but one should consult a doctor if the situation is getting worse, which means frequent and severe headaches. Self-care, medical support, along with awareness of various information, make a journey of pregnancy more memorable and happiest, even with occasional issues.