What should you know about headache during pregnancy 3rd trimester?

Late pregnancy can change sleep, posture, appetite, fluid needs, and nasal congestion. A mild headache may improve after food, water, rest, or a quieter environment. However, headache can also occur with high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia, especially when it is persistent or accompanied by vision changes, pain under the ribs, sudden swelling, nausea, or feeling very unwell. The symptom pattern and a blood-pressure check help guide care.

Sit or lie comfortably, drink fluids, eat a small meal if appropriate, and rest away from glare and noise. Keep a note of when the pain began and any visual, abdominal, swelling, or movement changes. Do not start, stop, or repeat medicine without checking its pregnancy safety with your maternity team or pharmacist. If the headache is new, persistent, or concerning, contact your maternity service promptly.

Seek urgent maternity or emergency care for a severe or sudden headache, headache that does not improve, blurred or flashing vision, weakness, confusion, fainting, seizure, severe pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling of the face or hands, repeated vomiting, fever with neck stiffness, vaginal bleeding, or reduced fetal movement. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these signs occur.

Ask whether your blood pressure and urine need checking, which pain relief is suitable, and which symptoms should send you directly to maternity assessment.