What Causes Migraine Headaches During Pregnancy?

Many women suffering from migraine headaches will find temporary relief during pregnancy. For other women, migraines get worse and still others will have migraines for the first time. What can you do if you are not one of the lucky ones? Understanding the causes will help you determine the cure.

Hormones

Researchers have found a connection between estrogen and migraine headache. This means any woman could, realistically, have migraines because estrogen levels fluctuate during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.

You Are What You Eat

Many foods are associated with causing migraines including, chocolate, caffeine, Monosodium glutamate or MSG, cheese, and the artificial sweetener, Aspartame. Skipping meals can cause headache as well.

The Weather Outside is Changed

Weather changes are notorious for causing migraine episodes in some women. Also think about other external factors, such as your coworker's perfume, the construction crew outside your office window or even the bright sunshine reflecting off your car. Sound, light and smell can all be migraine triggers.

Prevention/Solution

A headache diary is helpful to determine your triggers. Keep track of all the above items in the 24 hours before your migraine began and look for a common occurrence through several headaches.

Significance

Since medication during pregnancy is generally not a good idea, insight provided by your headache diary is invaluable to helping you control your migraines without risk to the baby.

Resources

• American Pregnancy Association
• Aurora Health Care