Are Headaches A Sign Of Pregnancy?

Prenatal

oi-Anwesha

By Anwesha Barari

Thursday, November 10, 2011, 15:09

Headaches during pregnancy are so common that you may mistake the headline as a justification of headaches as pregnancy symptoms. However, that is not the intention. The question being asked is whether headache is a conclusive confirmation of early pregnancy. Of course it is not because you may be suffering from migraine or sinus problems all your life that gives you persistent headaches. However if you are normally not prone to headaches and start having them coupled with other symptoms like delayed periods and nausea, headaches become a pregnancy symptom that is pretty strong.

Headaches in pregnancy can occur after you have detected you are pregnant and continue throughout so it is prudent to discuss its main causes in detail.

When Do Women Have Headaches During Pregnancy?

1. The first trimester is marked by sharp pains in your head that doesn't allow you to think clearly.
2. In the third trimester these headaches return but they lack the vigour of the first burst.
3. Headaches can be a symptom of pregnancy when they start even before you miss your period or do a test for pregnancy.

Why Do Women Have Headaches During Pregnancy?

• Hormonal Imbalance: When you are pregnant your hormones undergo a huge upheaval and that change of pattern can result in headaches. Your splitting headaches will be like your mood swings that come and go on their own will.

• Tension: The tension of being pregnant, especially if this is your first pregnancy can be a contributing factor to your pains. If you are constantly worried or thinking too hard and then try to relax for a while and see if you feel better.

• Stress: Any kind of physical or emotional stress can be a huge pregnancy problem. Try to stay as happy and relaxed as you can. Sometimes work pressure or the strain of traveling to work causes unnecessary stress. Try to maintain punctuality and travel comfortably to avoid undue consequences.

• High Blood Pressure: If you are having pregnancy problems like preeclampsia, then headaches are only a small portion of your problems. High blood pressure causes splitting headaches even in normal individuals but in pregnant women it spells all kinds of complications and should not be ignored.

• Body Weight: In the later stages of pregnancy, headaches are usually a by product of the weight you are carry around. Your body is tired due to the weight and so is your mind. You need to keep yourself well fed and hydrated to stay comfortable.

• Bad Posture: Resting in an improper posture is one of the main reasons of headaches especially in the third trimester when you start bloating. Even if your rest your head inadequately or prop up in a awkward posture, it can result in a head and neck ache.

It is important to pay adequate attention to every aspect of your prenatal health. As long as the headaches come and go it is alright but report it to your gynecologist anyway.