One of the least exciting parts of early pregnancy is the headaches. Pregnancy headaches usually occur during the first trimester. They can start happening between three to four weeks after conception, although this varies greatly for every woman.
These headaches are caused by the sudden hormonal shifts that your body is experiencing. Many different factors can result in a headache, and there’s a good chance that your body will go through most or all of them. Keep reading to find out why you have pregnancy headaches and what to do about them.
The Cause of Early Pregnancy Headaches
Pregnancy is often accompanied by a sudden increase in blood volume. Since blood flows through your head, your capillaries might not be used to processing the extra liquid, causing a headache.
Creating and moving that extra blood can cause you to get dehydrated, which is one of the most common causes of headaches. Pregnant women need to drink more water – and go to the bathroom more often as a result.
Low blood sugar is also another common cause of pregnancy headaches. Your body is feeding two now, and the amount of food you were eating before might not cut it. In addition to headaches, low blood sugar will also cause a feeling of exhaustion and weakness.
Stop the Headache Symptoms Now
If you’re reading this article, there’s a good chance that you’re experiencing a pregnancy headache. These headaches don’t cause any long-term problems, but they’re also extremely unpleasant.
First, have a tall glass of water. Almost all headaches are at least partially caused by dehydration. Plus, drinking water is an extremely relaxing activity that might take the pressure off.
Next, have a snack. Low blood sugar will make you tired and cranky, and it can definitely contribute to that killer headache you’re experiencing. Try munching on cookies, chips, or other foods that will hit your system quickly. Just don’t eat too much; you want your baby to be fueled by a healthy diet.
Some women find that a warm compress or a warm bath can help quite a bit. Other women find that cold water relieves the symptoms. Try both, and see what makes you feel better.
Finally, the best cure for a headache is rest and relaxation. Turn off the lights and lay back on a cool pillow. If you have things to do, set a twenty-minute timer. Make sure that you’re in a good posture that will encourage healthy blood flow.
Keep the Headaches from Happening
These headaches are caused by your pregnancy, so you can’t stop them completely. But if you make a few lifestyle changes, you can reduce both the frequency and the severity of your symptoms.
Make a habit of staying hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you, and don’t be ashamed if you need to pee more often. Cycling extra water is just a normal part of being pregnant.
Eat more frequently than you did before you were pregnant. Go ahead and cut your portions down, especially if you’re experiencing nausea. The important thing is to create a steady flow of nutrients that will keep your blood sugar high.
Get a regular amount of sleep so that your body is well rested. Sleep for at least eight hours; if you’re still tired, try sleeping for up to ten. Pregnancy is exhausting.
Exercise can help you achieve healthier blood flow. Start going for walks, or try a little yoga. Talk to your doctor to find an exercise routine that will improve your physical health without putting too much stress on the baby.
As a final note, many women stop drinking caffeine as soon as they become pregnant. Caffeine withdrawal can cause severe headaches. Although you want to cut the coffee for the sake of your baby, don’t go cold turkey if it’s hurting you. Plan a gradual decrease to help your body get over the withdrawals.
