Oh, my aching head...

Hey mama-to-be … are you experiencing those “lovely” headaches?? I know in my first trimester of this pregnancy, I was experiencing some of the WORST headaches/migraines I’ve ever had! Trying to follow the suggestion (per my doctor) to not take the typical pain relievers, I had to figure out some other pregnancy-safe solutions.

I’ve created a list of things that helped me, and they may help you!

1. REST & LOWER THE LIGHTS

When possible, a quick nap in a dark room worked wonders for me! I’m specifying the “dark room” part, because for me light was making thos

e headaches worse. I’m a 1st grade teacher, and it seemed like a day teaching with the fluorescent light bulbs was really triggering these headaches. I may have turned the lights off a few times throughout the day, too, and we worked with the lamps and window light… and of course, the first graders thought that was a wonderful way to work! Haha. So if you work in an area where you can dim the lights, this may help you if you’re unable to take a nap.

2. PEPPERMINT OIL

Peppermint oil is one of the most common essential oils to use to help relieve a headache. Peppermint oil contains menthol, which relaxes muscles, increases blood flow to the area where it’s applied and eases pains. I always apply a few drops to areas where the headache seems to be coming from. For me, my temples and the back of my neck tend to be those places. This is our favorite peppermint oil

3. HOT or COLD COMPRESSES

My rice sock (literally, an old sock filled with rice and tied at the top) has been a lifesaver for these headaches! Just throw it in the microwave for a minute or two and put it on your head, eyes, or neck. I’ve also heard a cold compress works well, too! Here’s a link to a few hot and cold compress options I found on Amazon- compress 1 compress 2

4. HYDRATE, HYDRATE, HYDRATE! (HINT: We MIGHT be helping with that in the Oct. Box)

Getting plenty of water during pregnancy is SO important and can help you feel your best. Experts suggest to drink 64-96 ounces of water each day. If you start to feel a headache coming, drink a glass of water and that may do the trick! Carrying a cute water bottle always helps me with this one! 😉hint #2

I know these headaches can be awful, but keep in mind that your body is working hard to create a precious baby!

I hope some of these tips relieves some of the pain that comes with headaches during pregnancy. You’ve got this, mama!