Primary Headaches (2/3 of cases):
- Migraine (90% of primary cases):
- Common in pregnancy, especially first trimester (2% prevalence).
- Often improves in later stages (Kvisvik, 2011).
- Tension-type headaches and trigeminal cephalalgia are less common.
- Secondary Headaches (1/3 of cases):
- Hypertensive disorders (50% of secondary cases) are a major concern.
- Other causes: trauma, vascular disorders, infections, or metabolic imbalances.
Rationale: Pregnancy alters hormonal balance, which can trigger migraines. Hypertension is a critical secondary cause due to risks like preeclampsia.
Next Steps:
- Assess for hypertension (blood pressure, urine protein).
- Consider imaging if focal neurological signs are present.
- Avoid certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs) unless prescribed.
Would you like guidance on safe headache treatments during pregnancy?