Which type of headache is most common after childbirth?

One of the most common types of headaches that may happen after childbirth is tension headaches. They are often linked to tiredness, stress, poor sleep, and muscle tension during the postpartum period.

Can an epidural cause headaches after childbirth?

Some people develop a post-dural puncture headache after an epidural or spinal anaesthesia. The pain usually becomes worse when sitting or standing and improves when lying down.

When should I worry about a headache after childbirth?

Get immediate medical care for sudden and severe headaches that do not improve with rest or occur with blurred vision, fever, seizures, confusion, weakness, or high blood pressure.

What Causes Headaches After Childbirth? Types, Causes, and Warning Signs

You may neglect minor headaches, as you can manage them with simple home remedies. However, if the pain becomes severe, it can be difficult to manage, especially if you are a new mother. Depending on the cause, many types of headaches may affect you in your postpartum period. These can be tension headaches, migraines, and more.

After childbirth, your body experiences several changes, including hormonal fluctuations.

Sometimes, changes in oestrogen levels may trigger headaches after your pregnancy. Headaches due to a more serious cause happen rarely.

Fortunately, headaches experienced after childbirth can be managed. Here’s what you need to know about the causes and treatments of headaches after pregnancy.

Our experts explain different types and causes of headaches that may occur after childbirth. Also, know what to expect and when you should consult for medical advice.

What Types of Headaches Can You Have After Childbirth?

Not every postpartum headache has the same cause. Some are related to the normal recovery process (primary headaches), while others (secondary headaches) may need medical attention.

Type of headache	What it feels like	Common cause
Tension headache	A dull, tight pain on both sides of the head or around the forehead	Stress, tiredness, lack of sleep or muscle tension
Migraine	Throbbing pain, usually on one side, sometimes with nausea or sensitivity to light and sound	Hormonal changes or a history of migraines
Post-dural puncture headache	Pain that worsens when sitting or standing and improves when lying down	Leakage of spinal fluid after an epidural or spinal anaesthetic
Headache due to high blood pressure	Severe or persistent headache, often with blurred vision	Postpartum pre-eclampsia
Headache caused by another medical condition	May occur with fever, neck stiffness, weakness, or confusion	Infection, blood clot, or, rarely, stroke

What Can Trigger Headaches After Childbirth?

Your body goes through many changes after delivery. These changes can trigger different types of headaches.

Some common reasons include:

Hormonal changes, like oestrogen levels, fall after childbirth
Lack of sleep
Dehydration
Not drinking adequate water during breastfeeding
Physical and emotional stress
Anaemia after blood loss during delivery
Recovery after an epidural

When Should You Reach Out For Medical Help?

Most headaches improve with rest and simple self-care. However, some symptoms should never be ignored. These are:

Sudden and severe headache
Blurred or double vision
High blood pressure
Fever
Seizures
Confusion
Weakness or numbness
Difficulty speaking

These symptoms may be linked to conditions such as:

Postpartum pre-eclampsia
A severe infection
A blood clot or stroke (rare)

In such cases, it is essential to seek treatment as soon as possible, as prompt treatment is critical for these conditions.

What Can You Do to Feel Better?

If your doctor has ruled out a serious cause, these simple steps may help ease your headache.

Drink enough water throughout the day
Eat regular, balanced meals
Rest whenever your baby is asleep, if possible
Stretch your neck and shoulders gently
Reduce screen time if bright light worsens your symptoms
Accept help from family or friends while you recover
Take pain-relieving medicines only as advised by your doctor, particularly if you are breastfeeding

Can You Reduce the Risk of Headaches After Childbirth?

You cannot prevent every headache, but healthy habits may reduce the chances of getting one, such as

Staying hydrated
Eating balanced meals
Resting adequately
Accept help

Always attend your postnatal check-ups and follow your doctor's advice if you have a history of migraines or high blood pressure.

Prioritising your health while caring for a newborn can help you recover faster and take better care of your child. However, you can’t always prevent headaches that you might experience after childbirth. But consulting your doctor on time and following simple remedies can help you manage them.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on What Causes Headaches After Childbirth?

Which type of headache is most common after childbirth?
One of the most common types of headaches that may happen after childbirth is tension headaches. They are often linked to tiredness, stress, poor sleep, and muscle tension during the postpartum period.
Can an epidural cause headaches after childbirth?
Some people develop a post-dural puncture headache after an epidural or spinal anaesthesia. The pain usually becomes worse when sitting or standing and improves when lying down.
When should I worry about a headache after childbirth?
Get immediate medical care for sudden and severe headaches that do not improve with rest or occur with blurred vision, fever, seizures, confusion, weakness, or high blood pressure.