Headache and pregnancy: what to know

Pregnancy can change sleep, appetite, posture, fluid needs, and sensitivity to smells and light. Missing meals, becoming overheated, or stopping caffeine suddenly may trigger pain. Congestion from allergic rhinitis, a common cold, or chronic sinusitis can also cause pressure around the face. A migraine may bring throbbing pain, nausea, or light sensitivity, even if migraine was not familiar before pregnancy.

Headache can sometimes accompany high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia, particularly after the middle of pregnancy. A persistent headache with visual disturbance, swelling of the face or hands, pain under the ribs, sudden breathlessness, or feeling very unwell should be assessed urgently.

Rest somewhere cool and quiet, sip water, and eat a small balanced snack if you have gone without food. Gentle neck and shoulder relaxation, a cool compress, and a regular sleep routine may help. Check with your maternity clinician or pharmacist before taking any painkiller, cold remedy, migraine product, or herbal preparation; pregnancy changes which medicines are suitable, and combination products can contain hidden ingredients. Keep a record of timing, triggers, blood-pressure readings if provided, and associated symptoms.

Contact your maternity team promptly for a new, severe, persistent, or steadily worsening headache, especially with blurred vision, flashing lights, weakness, confusion, vomiting, fever, stiff neck, upper-abdominal pain, or sudden swelling. Emergency help is needed for collapse, seizure, breathing difficulty, or a sudden explosive headache. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these symptoms occur.

Ask whether your blood pressure and urine need checking, which pain relief is appropriate for your stage of pregnancy, and how to distinguish migraine from a pregnancy complication. Tell them about supplements, prescribed medicines, caffeine changes, and any recent infection.