Headache, nausea and tiredness in pregnancy

Early pregnancy can bring nausea, altered appetite, tiredness, and headaches. Later symptoms may be affected by dehydration, missed meals, poor sleep, anaemia, stress, or an infection. COVID-19 may cause headache and fatigue alongside respiratory or fever symptoms. Pregnancy can also change how medicines and supplements should be used, so do not assume a familiar product is suitable. Symptoms alone cannot confirm a pregnancy complication or another diagnosis.

Take small, frequent sips of fluid and try plain, nourishing foods in manageable portions. Rise slowly, rest when needed, and keep a record of headaches, vomiting, fever, vision changes, swelling, and fluid intake. Ask your maternity team or pharmacist before taking painkillers, anti-nausea products, herbs, or supplements. A clinician may check blood pressure, urine, hydration, or blood count; Anaemia can contribute to tiredness and headache.

Contact your maternity service urgently for a severe or persistent headache, visual disturbance, pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling, fainting, confusion, fever, or repeated vomiting. Seek emergency help for seizure, new weakness, trouble speaking, severe breathlessness, or inability to keep fluids down. Mention reduced urination, bleeding, abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movement when relevant to your stage of pregnancy.

Could my symptoms relate to blood pressure, anaemia, dehydration, infection, or a medicine? Which treatments are suitable in pregnancy? Which changes should prompt immediate review?