Does gestational hypertension cause severe headache in pregnancy?

Gestational hypertension is high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy. A severe headache can occur when blood pressure is affecting the body, but headache has other possible causes, including migraine, dehydration, infection, or changes in sleep. The symptom alone cannot identify the cause. A maternity clinician may check your blood pressure, urine, symptoms, and blood tests, and may assess your baby depending on your stage of pregnancy.

Stop strenuous activity and contact your maternity unit or pregnancy clinician promptly if the headache is new, severe, persistent, or different from headaches you have had before. Tell them when it began, whether it improves with rest, and whether you have vision changes, upper abdominal pain, nausea, or reduced movement. Do not take a new medicine or extra dose without checking that it is suitable in pregnancy.

Seek urgent maternity or emergency care for a severe headache that does not settle, especially with blurred vision or flashing lights, sudden swelling of the face or hands, pain under the ribs, vomiting, confusion, weakness, a seizure, chest pain, or trouble breathing. Reduced fetal movement, vaginal bleeding, or feeling suddenly very unwell also warrants immediate advice. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these warning signs occur.

Ask: What is my blood pressure today? Do I need urine or blood tests? Which headache medicines are appropriate for me? How should I monitor symptoms at home, and who should I call if the headache returns?