Although Tylenol (acetaminophen) has long been believed safe for occasional use during pregnancy, some scientists have suggested using it with caution. These home remedies are attractive to many pregnant people because they are not only drug-free, but easy to use.
This article presents some natural remedies for both treating and preventing headaches during pregnancy.
Headache Relief During Pregnancy
Here are a few ideas on pregnancy headache relief from the American Pregnancy Association:
For a sinus headache, apply a warm compress around your eyes and nose. For a tension headache, use a cold compress or ice pack at the base of your neck. Eat smaller, more frequent meals to maintain your blood sugar. This may even help prevent headaches. Get a massage, especially around your shoulders and neck. Rest in a dark room. Practice deep breathing. Take a warm shower or bath. Use good posture, especially in the third trimester
Preventing Headaches
Preventing a headache from occurring in the first place is the most ideal solution. Here are simple, lifestyle habits that a pregnant person can adopt to help stop the head pain before it starts.
This is especially true for people who suffer from migraines — although, the good news is that many migraineurs experience relief of their migraines in the second and third trimester.
Eating nutritious meals at regular intervals throughout the dayWalking at least 30 minutes a daySleep hygiene — not over or under sleepingStress management techniques like yoga, biofeedback, or relaxation trainingConsider coenzyme Q10 or magnesium supplements for migraine prevention.
Other strategies include:
Reducing workDrinking lots of fluidsAcupuncturePhysical therapy
What Should You Do?
Be sure to discuss your headaches with your healthcare provider. Let him know if you plan to take a new medication, or if these natural remedies do not deliver pregnancy headache relief. If your headaches get worse or more persistent, or if they are different than headaches you typically experience, share this with your healthcare provider right away.
