A recent report has highlighted the risk of miscarriage if women take common painkillers in pregnancy. Pat Thomas suggests natural remedies to soothe throbbing heads

Pregnancy doesn’t increase the risk of developing headaches and, ironically, some regular migraine sufferers find their headaches disappear when they’re pregnant. But a number of women feel more stressed at this time and headaches are not uncommon. Try to avoid painkillers. A recent report published in the British Medical Journal (February 2001) linked common painkillers – such as aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen – with a possible increased risk of miscarriage. Paracetamol is a safe alternative, but painkillers only provide short-term relief so it’s worth considering alternative remedies.

Try these natural remedies:

• Peppermint oil contains a mild, local anaesthetic and several studies have shown that it is one of the most effective headache busters. Several studies, including one published in 1995 in the journal Phytomedicine, have found that a mix of peppermint and eucalyptus oils was the most effective remedy for headaches. Try mixing 5–7 drops of peppermint, with 1 drop of eucalyptus in a base of 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Rub a bit of this on your temples, neck or wherever the pain is.
• Many headaches begin with muscle tension around the jaw and neck. This can be caused by stress or by just sitting in one position at a desk all day. Tense muscles restrict blood flow to the head, which can result in head pain. To lessen tension in body and mind consider a regular massage (Shiatsu is idea for headaches) or a programme of yoga as practised in many Active Birth classes. When you are at the office, give your muscles a break by getting up regularly, taking a few slow, deep breaths and having a good stretch.
• Headaches are more likely on hot days when the extra weight and blood you are carrying makes you feel sticky and tired. Drink plenty of fluids and make sure the room you’re in is well ventilated.
• Pregnancy can exaggerate adverse reactions to some foods. If you are able to link your headaches to a type of food, leave it out of your diet.
• Consider these homeopathic remedies: Gelsemium 6C – for band-like pain over the eyes made worse by heat and movement.
  Phosphorous 6C – for head pain brought on by atmospheric changes or shock, and made better from rest and food.
  Nux vomica 6C – for headaches which occur first thing in the morning but get better as the day wears on.

Finally, don’t underestimate the link between headaches and your environment. A recent University of Bristol study involving 14,000 women revealed that pregnant women who constantly use aerosol products such as air fresheners, deodorants, furniture polishes and hairsprays have significantly higher rates of headaches and post-natal depression than women who use these products less than once a week.

For the majority of pregnant women rest, relaxation and simple self-help measures are the keys to relieving headache pain. However, if you are experiencing severe, persistent headaches always consult you GP or midwife so that they can rule out any underlying problems.