Parenting

Pregnancy needn’t be a headache

By Philips

•

08/06/2021

•

2-5 min. read

Parent preparing food using steamer/blender

As your body changes and your hormones levels rise to support the growing needs of
your baby, headaches can be common, especially in your first trimester.

But don’t worry. We’re here to help, with six simple but effective ways to ease a headache:

At a glance

1) Sleep well
2) Drink water
3) Eat a balanced healthy diet
4) Ditch caffeine
5) Exercise
6) Get advice

1) Sleep well

Growing a baby is tiring work. Keep headaches at bay by listening to your body and taking time to relax and sleep well.

2) Drink water

Drink water Your body needs extra water during pregnancy. Drinking eight glasses of water a day will help you stay hydrated and feel at your best.

3) Eat a balanced healthy diet

Give your body and mind a boost by eating plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, wholegains, nuts and seeds. Try to avoid sugary and processed foods that can bringon a headache.

4) Ditch caffeine

Keeping your caffeine levels low has lots of great benefits for you and your baby. Try replacing your morning coffee with water or squash to keep headaches away.

5) Exercise

Getting out and about in the fresh air can help you to de-stress, increase blood flowto your baby and help ease a headache. Plus, exercise releases naturalendorphins, so it feels pretty good too!

6) Get advice

Some popular headache medications are not safe during pregnancy. Speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to find out which medications are safe for you and your baby.
If your headache does not improve or you experience any problems with your vision, or have a temperature, contact your healthcare provider for advice.