As always, be sure to check with your midwife or doctor. This reference was first written on the Pregnancy and Attachment Parenting list. Other references are given at the bottom of the page.

Most of this is from Healing Yourself during Pregnancy, by Joy Gardner.

Headaches are common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes.

Calcium. Calcium is good for pain. When taken alone, it tends to quiet your nerves and ease your pain. But if you want more of a stimulating effect, take 100mg of vitamin C with each dose of calcium. Usually calcium comes in tablets of about 450mg. You may need to take one to four tablets, one to four times per day, depending on how serious the pain is. Note: If headaches get worse and more frequent, or it they are worse at the upper back of your head, there is a possibility of high blood pressure. If you have a fever of 102 degrees or more along with a headache, with no other symptoms, this could also be dangerous. Consult your health care provider.

Hops, Scullcap, and Catnip. These herbs can be takin as a tea or in capsules for safe and effective relief. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Remove from the heat. Add 1 teaspoon of each herb. Brew for 20 minutes. Reheat if desired, but do not boil. Drink one to two cups, as needed. Store the unused portion in the refrigerator. Note: Any one of these herbs, used alone, is also effective for tension headaches.

Peppermint Oil. Rub peppermint oil into your temples. Most people experience a remarable easing of tension. Peppermint oil is available in most drugstores. Some people use the Essential Balm which contains peppermint oil. You can also drink peppermint tea, or combine it with catnip, scullcap, and/or hops (see above recipe). Peppermint as a tea is good for settling the stomach, which may be the cause of the headache.