Headache in the second trimester

Headache in the second trimester may relate to dehydration, poor sleep, stress, congestion, or migraine, but persistent or severe pain needs pregnancy-aware advice. Do not start a new medicine without checking that it is suitable during pregnancy.

Changes in sleep, meals, fluids, posture, stress, and caffeine can trigger headache during pregnancy. Nasal congestion or an illness such as a Common Cold can also contribute. Allergic Rhinitis may cause pressure and blocked breathing, while Dehydration and Heat Exhaustion can cause headache with thirst, weakness, or dizziness.

Headache is not a reliable way to judge pregnancy wellbeing. A clinician may need to check blood pressure, urine, hydration, vision, neurological symptoms, and the wider pregnancy history, particularly when the pattern is new or persistent.

Drink regularly, eat small balanced meals, rest in a cool quiet room, and reduce glare. Gentle shoulder relaxation or a cool cloth may help. Keep a note of timing, severity, triggers, blood-pressure readings if available, and associated symptoms. Ask your maternity team or pharmacist before taking any pain reliever, herbal product, or combination cold remedy; product choice matters during pregnancy, and some medicines are unsuitable.

Contact your maternity team promptly for a severe, persistent, or rapidly worsening headache, especially with visual changes, flashing lights, pain under the ribs, sudden swelling of the face or hands, breathlessness, vomiting, or feeling very unwell. Seek emergency care for seizure, confusion, fainting, new weakness or numbness, trouble speaking, a stiff neck with fever, or a sudden extreme headache.

Could my headache relate to blood pressure, hydration, infection, vision, or migraine? Which medicines and doses are suitable for me? Should I monitor anything at home, and exactly when should I call the maternity unit or attend emergency care?