Migraine before, during and after pregnancy
Migraine in pregnancy
Migraine often changes in pregnancy, easing for many in the later trimesters but needing careful treatment choices throughout. New or changing headache in pregnancy also deserves prompt attention.
Many people with migraine improve by the second and third trimesters
How migraine changes in pregnancy
Migraine without aura often improves as pregnancy progresses, particularly after the first trimester, as oestrogen levels stabilise. Migraine with aura may persist or appear for the first time.
After birth, attacks can return as hormone levels fall, and sleep loss and stress can add to the load.
Treatment with care
Treatment choices in pregnancy and while breastfeeding balance symptom relief against safety, so they are best agreed with your clinician.
- Non-drug approaches first, including hydration, sleep and trigger management
- Careful review of which acute and preventive medicines are suitable
- Prompt assessment of any new or changing headache
- A clear plan for the postnatal period and breastfeeding
What Erin does about it
From your story to a working plan
- 01The intake records how your migraine is changing through pregnancy
- 02Your assessment flags new or changing headache that needs prompt clinical review
- 03You receive a plain-language summary; your clinician receives a structured SOAP note where licensed
- 04Education focuses on non-drug management and the questions to raise with your maternity team
