Headaches From Breastfeeding

Besides the overall economic benefits, breastfeeding provides extensive health benefits to the mother, including a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cancers of the breast and ovaries, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Despite these benefits, breastfeeding can occasionally cause discomfort to a lactating mother. Headaches can be a recurring issue during breastfeeding.

Types

Scientists in Uppsala, Sweden describe what they call a lactation headache. This is a headache that occurs exclusively during feedings, according to the International Headache Society. Other types of headaches related to breastfeeding include hormone-induced migraines and stress-related headaches.

Triggers

In terms of lactation headaches, suckling appears to be the trigger that increases plasma vasopressin, a hormone that causes the narrowing of blood vessels. Oxytocin, another hormone, is released during breastfeeding and has been linked to headaches. Dehydration in general can cause headache. When a woman is breastfeeding, dehydration can occur frequently due to the body's output of milk. If prone to migraines, a nursing mother may see a connection between feedings and headache due to hormone fluctuation.

Common, Overlooked Triggers

Parents of newborns are familiar with the concept of sleep deprivation, which can cause headaches. Phonophobia, which causes a sensitivity to loud noises, may be triggered in the vicinity of a crying baby. Stress is an important factor to consider as well---the impact of adding another human being to a home cannot be overestimated.

Treatment and Prevention

Breastfeeding can cause a dehydration headache, so drink plenty of water. Because caffeine is a diuretic, or water-remover, avoid consuming too much to maintain hydration. Medications can provide relief but should be taken only under the care of a doctor. Your doctor might recommend over-the-counter medications such as naproxen or ibuprofen. If migraine is the cause, your doctor can prescribe a medication tailored to your particular situation. Avoid taking aspirin, ergotamine, antihistamines or triptans while breastfeeding.

Expert Insight

A study by the University of Pittsburgh Pain Evaluation and Treatment Institute found that physical therapy, relaxation training and biofeedback helped relieve headache in 80 percent of study participants. In the study, 30 pregnant women were treated; their progress was tracked for up to one year after giving birth. At one year post-birth, two-thirds of the study participants were still feeling headache relief. The results of this study suggest that some headaches may be effectively treated with a non-medication approach.