Headache While Breastfeeding: All You Need To Know

Image: ShutterStock

Breastfeeding has proven beneficial effects on both the baby and the mother. However, a headache while breastfeeding may cause discomfort. Lactating mothers may often feel a pulling sensation on their nerves during nursing, and the problem aggravates if a headache accompanies it. You may be skeptical about what is causing the headache and if it is directly related to breastfeeding. A breastfeeding headache occurs during the let-down of the milk. The headache can persist throughout the feed, although it usually improves quickly. It is thought to occur due to increased oxytocini levels in the body. If you are constantly being affected by lactation headaches, continue reading this post as we provide you with all the required information about headaches when breastfeeding and suggest ways to deal with the condition.

Causes Of Headache While Nursing

Here are the probable causes of a lactation headache:

1. Migraine

If you had migraines prior to becoming a mother, then the migraines might worsen in the postpartum period. This can be due to hormonal changes or changes in medication, or simply the added stress of transitioning into your new role as a mother. A study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (AJOG) found that most postpartum headaches are either tension-type or migraines, often occurring within 24 hours after delivery, especially after discharge. However, timely management with a structured, multidisciplinary approach can help prevent complications and provide relief (15).

Treatment: Consult your doctor for appropriate medications if you experience migraines during breastfeeding.

Neurologist Dr. Claire Sandoe shares her insights on migraines during breastfeeding through the American Migraine Foundation. She explains that factors like the return of your period, poor diet, lack of sleep, and stress, may trigger migraine. To manage them, she recommends planning treatment around breastfeeding and pumping after feeds to maintain supply and store extra milk for nighttime feeds (8).

Did you know?

Using Aspirin when breastfeeding is considered unsafe as it is thought to cause Reye's syndromeⁱA rare condition of swelling in the liver and brain leading to loss of consciousness, confusion, or seizures in babies. Reye’s syndrome is a serious condition that causes vomiting, seizures, and sleepiness, in babies (8).

2. Postpartum depression

Post-natal depression is a relatively common condition affecting 1 in 4 women in the first 12 months after giving birth. According to a study that was conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 13% of the women that were surveyed by health care providers in and around the United States reported depressive symptoms during the postpartum period. Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and being overwhelmed while caring for infants can be accompanied by chronic dull headaches that refuse to go away. If you are concerned that you may be suffering with PPD, then get some familial and professional support.

Treatment: Interestingly, breastfeeding can help alleviate the intensity of a headache since it stabilizes the levels of estrogenⁱA sex hormone responsible for the development of female sexual characteristics in the body (1). However, it does not cure a headache, and you may need to take medication.

Research finds

Studies suggest that over 30% of women may experience headaches after childbirth, with 75% being benign primary headaches, such as tension headaches or migraines (16).

3. Mastitis

Mastitis is the clogging or blockage of milk ducts in the breast due to infection or poor release of milk. The latter case happens if the baby is not fed frequently or is having insufficient feed due to poor latching to the nipple. Milk accumulates within the breast to the point that it blocks the duct, increasing the risk of bacterial infection.

Symptoms of the condition include breast tenderness, fatigue, and headache that could be accompanied by fever (2). There is a dull to sharp breast pain every time the baby suckles or even while pumping milk. Mastitis affects nearly 20% of postpartum women and is most common in the first six weeks after childbirth (3).

Treatment: If you are concerned that you might have mastitis (red, hot, inflamed and painful breasts), particularly if you have a fever, you should consult your medical practitioner as you may need antibiotics. Remember to get plenty of rest and stay well hydrated.

4. Dehydration

Breast milk is 88% water, and the milk is all the baby needs to quench his thirst for the first six months of his life (4). Many mothers feel increasingly thirsty when they begin lactation since they need to meet the increased water requirements of their body. Not drinking enough water can lead to mild to severe dehydration, which can cause frequent headaches (5).

Treatment: Drinking sufficient water is the key to satisfying the additional fluid demand. Experts even recommend keeping a glass of water handy whenever you breastfeed your baby. It helps replenish the body with the lost fluids immediately.

5. Fatigue

Raising a baby is exhausting since you juggle with multiple tasks. You balance life’s important duties with the responsibility of having a baby, and somewhere in the process, you lose precious hours of sleep. Sleep deprivation is a genuine problem faced during the early parenting years (6).

Mothers can try different breastfeeding positions to take rest whilst feeding. The ‘laid-back nursing position’ and side-lying help the mothers relax whilst the baby is feeding.

Treatment: The best way to prevent a headache from fatigue during breastfeeding is to have ample rest. Speak to your partner about sharing responsibilities or take help from a family member so that you get sufficient sleep.

You may have treated yourself with painkillers every time you had a headache, but since you are a lactating mother, you need to avoid self-medication.

Some underlying medical conditions may also cause headaches in breastfeeding new moms.

Mirasol, a mother of three, shares how persistent headaches after a few days of giving birth to her third child, Mathia, were diagnosed as symptoms of postpartum preeclampsia. She writes, “A few days after I gave birth, I felt so dizzy and had a severe headache. There was a circle-like in my vision and so much discomfort. When my baby had her first check-up, my OB noticed that my face was swollen, the same as my legs and feet. My blood pressure was 170/110! My OB referred me to another doctor (cardio) and gave me medicine for hypertension.

“I thought after I took the medicine for hypertension, my blood pressure would be normal, but I was wrong! I monitored my blood pressure every day, and it did not change. I consulted my OB and a cardiologist; they notified me that I needed to be confined in the hospital. Initial findings of the doctor: hypertensive due to pregnancy. They called it postpartum preeclampsia (i).”

Quick fact

Postpartum PreeclampsiaⁱA pregnancy condition concerning high blood pressure and protein in the urine can also cause headaches with blurry vision or light sensitivity, swelling in hands and face (edema), and shortness of breath (9).

When To Seek Medical Help

Although mild and occasional headaches are common in nursing women, it is important to recognize when to seek medical attention to prevent complications. Here are a few signs that should not be ignored pertaining to a headache while breastfeeding (16) (17):

• A sudden, severe headache lasting for several weeks
• Increasing headache intensity
• Dizziness or blurred vision
• Swelling in the face or limbs
• Fever, neck stiffness, vomiting, or nausea
• Severe pain on one side, accompanied by high blood pressure
• Breathing difficulties
• Fatigue or muscle weakness
• Neurological symptoms such as reduced concentration, altered consciousness, or seizures

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately, as they may indicate a serious condition such as postpartum preeclampsia, hemorrhage, or stroke. Also, avoid self-medicating while breastfeeding and seek medical advice to ensure any treatment is safe for both you and your baby.

Treatment For Lactation Headaches

The treatment of a breastfeeding headache lies in addressing the underlying cause of the condition. Painkillers such as paracetamol can help alleviate the ache and make the mother feel better. Seek the advice of a medical practitioner if paracetamol, rest and increased intake of fluids fail to provide relief.

Experts say

Experts at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) state that medications such as Acetaminophen and Metoclopramide are considered safe to treat headaches during breastfeeding. For migraines, triptans are effective prescription medications. However, as they can pass into breast milk, your doctor may recommend waiting a specific period before breastfeeding (18).

Safe Home Remedies For Lactation Headache

You can follow some home remedies to get relief from a headache during breastfeeding. These do not impact your baby anyway:

1. Opt for a gentle massage: This stress-buster can help reduce the intensity of different pains, including headaches. You can hire the services of a professional masseuse or just ask your partner for a gentle head massage for pain relief. It can make you feel relaxed when feeding your baby.

2. Drink plenty of water: Keeping yourself hydrated is the best way to prevent headaches caused by dehydration. Drinking sufficient water supports optimal blood flow, helping you feel refreshed.
3. Relax with a warm water bath: Soaking in a tub of warm water helps release tension from strained muscles of the body. It also relaxes your body, thus making you feel rejuvenated.
4. Eat food rich in riboflavin: Evidence suggests that eating food rich in riboflavin, also called vitamin B2, can reduce the intensity of headaches, especially those caused by migraines (7). Many common food items, such as spinach, lettuce, apples, and milk, are naturally rich in riboflavin and other essential nutrition sources.
   

5. Prioritize good sleep: There is nothing more soothing to the nerves than a sound sleep. Sleep when your baby sleeps. Even a short nap of ten minutes can help you feel fresh.
6. Manage stress: Stress can intensify headaches and add to your discomfort. Practice breathing exercises and yoga asanas to help alleviate stress-related headaches.
7. Try warm or cold compresses: Apply a hot or cold compress, like a hot water bag, to your head and neck for relief. Experiment with both to see which works best for you (17).

Infographic: What Can Cause Headache When Nursing And Ways To Treat It

There are several potential causes of headaches during breastfeeding. Read about a few common ones in the following infographic and know how to alleviate them. If your headaches persist or get severe, it may be necessary to speak with a healthcare provider for further advice and treatment. Remember to take care of yourself and prioritize your health.

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Was this article helpful?

Community Experiences

Join the conversation and become a part of our nurturing community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with fellow parents.

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Joanne AubreyIBCLC

Joanne Aubrey is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), nurse, and a proud mom to three children. She is a member of the International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA) and Lactation Consultants of Great Britain (LCGB).

Read full bio of Joanne Aubrey

Rohit GarooBSc, MBA

Rohit Garoo is a writer-turned-editor with over 9 years of experience in content writing, editing, and content marketing. He did his bachelors in Science at St. Xavier's College, Hyderabad, and masters in Business Administration at Osmania University.

Read full bio of Rohit Garoo

Dr. Ritika ShahBDS, CLC

Dr. Ritika Shah is a certified lactation counsellor (CLC) from iNational Health Care Academy, Singapore and a dental surgeon with more than seven years of clinical experience across various cities in India. She did her graduation in Dentistry from KM Shah Dental College.

Read full bio of Dr. Ritika Shah

Anindita GhatakB.Tech

Anindita Ghatak holds a B.Tech degree in Biotechnology from Amity University, Kolkata. During the course of her studies, she has worked on different research projects in the fields of Microbiology and Bioinformatics. Anindita has over three years of experience writing medical articles for journals.

Read full bio of Anindita Ghatak