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Published on: 4/7/2025

What Could Be Causing Headache and Nausea During Pregnancy?

Headaches and nausea during pregnancy can happen because of normal changes in hormone levels and blood flow, and sometimes they are related to migraine or other conditions triggered by smells.

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Explanation

During pregnancy, your body goes through big changes that may cause headache and nausea. One common cause is the rising hormones, which change the way your blood flows and can make your brain sensitive, leading to headaches. These same hormones can also change your sense of smell. This means that everyday smells that never bothered you before might now trigger nausea and even a migraine headache in some people. Stress, dehydration, or not eating well can add to the mix. In some cases, if the headache and nausea are severe or come with other symptoms, they might signal other conditions that need a doctor’s care. But for many pregnant people, these symptoms are a normal part of the changes their bodies are making to support the new life. If your headache and nausea get worse or worry you, it’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider for more guidance and safe ways to feel better.

(References)

  • Heinrichs L. Linking olfaction with nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, recurrent abortion, hyperemesis gravidarum, and migraine headache. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2002 May;186(5 Suppl Understanding):S215-9. doi: 10.1067/mob.2002.123053. PMID: 12011889.

  • Digre KB. Headaches during pregnancy. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2013 Jun;56(2):317-29. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0b013e31828f25e6. PMID: 23563877.

  • Khoromi S. Secondary headaches in pregnancy and the puerperium. Front Neurol. 2023 Sep 28;14:1239078. doi: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1239078. PMID: 37840942; PMCID: PMC10569305.

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