Pregnancy can be a very exciting time in a woman’s life, but it can also be quite intimidating. The step into unknown territory and the thought of bringing another human being into the world can be daunting. For many women who live with migraines, contemplating the issue of pregnancy can be frightening. Anyone who has experienced migraines knows how debilitating severe headaches can become. However, some women report that they experienced relief or their condition improved due to pregnancy.
To experience headaches while pregnant can seriously disrupt even the strongest person’s life. According to research, almost 20% of women who get migraines avoid pregnancy due to the condition. Most believe that pregnancy would make the headaches worse. Others believe that the migraines would make dealing with pregnancy and the changes that occur much more difficult. However, the truth is that most women experience less severe and less frequent migraines during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
Causes Of Pregnancy Headaches
Many women who do not normally get migraines can suddenly find themselves experiencing pregnancy headaches. Most people believe that pregnancy headaches are caused by hormone fluctuations as well as nerve disruptions that occur during this time. Studies have shown that women who get severe headaches have a slightly higher risk of experiencing certain pregnancy complications including preterm birth and hypertension. Increased levels of estrogen during pregnancy can have therapeutic benefits.
Severe headaches during pregnancy can lead to consequences that are harmful to the mother and baby. The migraines can lead to increased stress and they exacerbate sleep problems. The headaches can keep the mother in a negative mood and also cause depression. Pregnancy headaches can cause nausea and vomiting, which in turn leads to poor nutrition and dehydration. Migraines in pregnancy have been linked to certain vascular problems. You should not assume that allowing yourself to go through pain is the best thing for your unborn baby.
Medication & Treatment For Headaches During Pregnancy
Studies have shown that most people, including healthcare workers, tend to overestimate the risks of using medication during pregnancy. This means that many women suffer from migraines when help is available. Nine out of ten women who get migraines during pregnancy avoid taking medication citing concerns about the effects on the baby. Choosing to avoid treating severe pregnancy headaches is not a good idea. Uncontrolled headaches can have negative consequences. All you need to do is to limit medications as much as possible.
It is important for women to understand that treatment for headaches during pregnancy is available. You do not have to deal with untreated headaches or to go through the pain and inconvenience throughout your pregnancy. Getting treatment for migraines doesn’t pose an increased risk to your pregnancy so you should not hesitate to get care for your condition. There are many treatments for pregnancy headaches that are proven to be safe and effective.
Using Botox For Pregnancy Headaches
Botox is a cosmetic treatment that is used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This injection has proven to be very effective in relieving certain types of migraines. Chrissy Teigen, who is expecting her third child with husband John Legend, recently opened up about how Botox is helping her. Teigen claimed that the Botox treatment has offered her much-needed relief from pregnancy headaches. Working with a neurologist, your Doctor can come up with a treatment plan that will help to manage your condition.
Research On Botox Treatment & Safety
With very little data available on the use of Botox during pregnancy, many doctors are cautious when recommending it. It is important to understand that there is not much data because it is a relatively new treatment option. There have been no well-controlled studies of its use in pregnant women. Before you decide to use Botox, talk to your doctor, and find out all you can about the treatment. While it is true that many women are using it and experiencing relief, limited research means that any long term effects are not known.
It is normal to feel anxious when choosing how to treat pregnancy headaches. It is a good idea to talk to an experienced physician who will help you to come up with the best treatment plan for your situation. Treating the headaches will reduce stress, keeping you and your baby healthy. Doctors and specialists will work with specific patients to decide whether the benefits of Botox outweigh any potential risks. It should be noted, however, that the treatment has not been linked to any adverse effects on the unborn baby.
Sources: migrainedisorders.org, utswmeg.org, webmd.com.