American Pregnancy suggests migraine headaches are like a lottery during pregnancy, as some women experience stronger pain while others go 40 weeks without the slightest indication of a migraine. Medications used to treat migraines during pregnancy may be limited due to potential harmful effects to the fetus.
Migraine Headache
According to American Pregnancy, migraines begin as a dull pain that eventually becomes throbbing in the temples and on front or base of the head. Mayo Clinic describes the migraine as a response to changes in brain chemicals.
Symptoms
In addition to the pain of a migraine, many other symptoms may occur. Examples of these include extreme sensory sensitivity and nausea with or without vomiting, according to the Mayo Clinic. The pain and other symptoms can be debilitating and interfere with regular activities.
Triggers
According to Mayo Clinic, hormones during menstruation, pregnancy and menopause seem to contribute to migraine headache frequency. Stress, chocolate, cheese, coffee and weather are other potential triggers, according to American Pregnancy.
Home Remedies
Attempt to treat a migraine with home remedies to avoid any potential risk to the fetus. Home remedies to try include the application of a cold towel to the head, a cold shower, resting, exercise or relaxation techniques. Unless caffeine is a trigger substance, a cup or two of coffee or other caffeinated beverage may help reduce the pain. Try acupuncture or massage, but only if your medical professional approves.
Medications
Acetaminophen is considered Category A drug by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration, meaning it has been studied in pregnant women and is safe for use, according to SafeFetus.com. Ibuprofen is Category B (minimal effect to fetus) but becomes Category D (evidence if severe fetal risk) when used in the third trimester. Prescriptions like Imitrex, Tylenol with Codeine and Axert are Cateogry C (evidence of some fetal risk). This leaves few entirely safe medications for pregnant women to take.
