Migraine during pregnancy

Migraine can change during pregnancy. Some people improve, especially later in pregnancy, while others continue to have attacks or notice aura changes. Because pregnancy also changes medication safety and headache red flags, new or worsening symptoms should be discussed with a clinician.

Do not assume every headache in pregnancy is “just migraine,” especially if the headache is new, severe, sudden, linked with high blood pressure symptoms, neurologic symptoms, fever, or visual changes that are not your usual aura.

What to track

• Pregnancy week or postpartum timing.
• Whether the headache is your usual migraine pattern.
• Aura symptoms and whether they are new.
• Vomiting, dehydration, swelling, blood pressure concerns, or visual changes.
• Medication, supplements, caffeine, and fluids.
• Sleep disruption and missed meals.

Medication conversations matter

Some migraine medicines are not appropriate in pregnancy or require careful risk-benefit discussion. If you are trying to conceive, pregnant, or postpartum, ask your clinician which acute and preventive options are safe for your situation before attacks happen.

Sources checked: MedlinePlus migraine, Mayo Clinic migraine symptoms, NHS migraine.

Should new headache in pregnancy be checked?

Yes. New, severe, unusual, or neurologic headache symptoms during pregnancy should be assessed promptly.