Caffeine headaches result when a person who typically consumes large amounts of caffeine each day suddenly stops. Many women who are concerned about the potential negative effects that caffeine may have on an unborn baby suddenly stop their caffeine intake upon discovering they are pregnant, triggering a caffeine headache. Although caffeine headaches are typically temporary and can be easily treated from home, talk to your doctor if you have specific questions about experiencing a caffeine headache during pregnancy.
Time Frame
Caffeine headaches typically occur approximately six to 24 hours after caffeine consumption, according to the Aetna InteliHealth website. The headaches typically go away on their own within a couple days, according to the American Heart Association. The specific time frame depends greatly on the specific situation. The amount of caffeine typically consumed and the woman's metabolism, age and health condition are a few factors that can influence how long a caffeine headache can last.
Treatment
Many at-home treatment options may relieve the pain of a caffeine headache during pregnancy. Applying a hot or cold compress to the forehead, lying down in a dark and quiet room or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever may reduce or eliminate the headache. However, pregnant women should use caution when using an over-the-counter pain reliever. Ask a doctor for recommendations to determine which pain relievers are safe during pregnancy, and check the label of the pain reliever to ensure the medication doesn't contain caffeine. Taking a pain reliever with caffeine may ease the pain but could cause a rebound headache when the medication wears off.
Misconceptions
Although some pregnant women feel the need to abruptly cease their caffeine intake for the sake of their unborn baby, this may not be necessary. The March of Dimes says that a caffeine consumption of up to 200mg a day is generally considered safe during pregnancy. Talk to a doctor about this issue if you're still concerned about the potential effects caffeine may have on your pregnancy. If you and your doctor feel it's appropriate, gradually reducing your caffeine intake instead of abruptly stopping may lessen your chances of a caffeine headache.
Considerations
Although the term "caffeine headache" typically refers to the headache that results from caffeine withdrawal, it's possible to experience a headache from consuming excessive amounts of caffeine as well. Consider limiting your caffeine consumption during pregnancy if you are consuming more than 200mg to 300mg caffeine a day, suggests the Mayo Clinic. This should eliminate headaches caused by excessive caffeine and may be safer for your pregnancy and unborn baby as well. The March of Dimes notes that consuming excessive amounts of caffeine during pregnancy may potentially increase the risk of miscarriage, pregnancy complications and adverse health effects to your unborn baby.
Warning
Before assuming that your headache is due to a lack of caffeine, consider that pregnancy hormones can often trigger headaches even when caffeine is not involved. Most of the time a headache during pregnancy isn't a cause for concern, but call your doctor if your headache is particularly severe or bothersome or does not go away on its own in a few days.
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