Headaches during pregnancy are very challenging as over-the-counter pain relievers are not recommended. Within the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, increased hormones play a role in the development of pregnancy headaches. The 40% increase in blood volume that occurs during pregnancy increases the pressure within the blood vessels and this in itself can cause headaches during pregnancy.
Headaches and pregnancy are related and can be very dangerous, especially if experienced during the last month of pregnancy, as they can also be caused by a condition called preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy condition that has symptoms such as headaches that are not relieved by over-the-counter medications, high blood pressure, swelling, and protein in the urine.
Headaches during pregnancy can also be caused or made worse by any of the following:
Stress Lack of sleep Vomiting Low blood sugar Dehydration Caffeine withdrawal Nicotine withdrawal Poor posture Pregnancy-related vision changes
What you can do to ease your headaches during pregnancy:
Reduce stress. Sleeping more. Treat your morning sickness. Eat regularly to avoid low blood sugar. Drink adequate amounts of high-quality water. Get chiropractic adjustments and tips to correct your posture. Avoid over-the-counter medications, especially during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. See a homeopath or acupuncturist for treatments to relieve your pain. Headaches during pregnancy are sometimes relieved with hot or cold compresses around the forehead and back of the neck. Have someone massage your shoulders and neck during acute pregnancy headaches. Rest in a dark room and practice deep relaxation breathing. Relaxing in a warm bath or shower can sometimes reduce stress and tension. The mangosteen fruit is well known for supporting all systems of the body. It is completely natural and can relieve and prevent headaches during pregnancy.
You tried all of the above and you still have headaches during pregnancy:
At this point, it would be appropriate to call your doctor or midwife for advice. Have your vision checked, as you may need glasses or a change of glasses.
If you experience any of these symptoms below with a headache, call your doctor or midwife immediately, as these are signs of a serious pregnancy complication called preeclampsia:
Blurred vision Pain on the right side of the abdomen Swollen hands and face Sudden weight gain Feeling very agitated or restless
Headaches during pregnancy can be very painful and very frustrating as it is not recommended that you use over the counter medications during pregnancy. When the traditional is not allowed, then it is time to investigate what holistic healing methods are available to you. Basic energy healing is extremely relaxing, will reduce stress and relieve some if not all of your headache.
Preventing headaches during pregnancy is the best place to start. Many pregnant clients who have a history of headaches will know what is the trigger for developing a headache. It is important to stay away from these triggers.
Many headache clients experienced improvement in their pregnancy headaches by taking mangosteen juice and minerals on a regular basis. Mangosteen is a very healing fruit and has a natural pain blocker and is safe for pregnancy.
Pregnancy can be an extraordinary experience for a woman. It’s so much more than growing a baby and dealing with problems like fatigue. Pregnancy has a huge emotional, mental, spiritual and energetic side. The more you understand these aspects, the easier and less symptomatic your pregnancy will be. Learning to connect with your unborn child’s emotions will allow you to enhance your pregnancy experience and surrender to your normal physiological process of pregnancy headaches.