The first couple of weeks after the delivery is normally spent in a haze by a new mother. Lack of sleep, confusion, chaotic routine, and a crying baby – she is really confused. The hormonal changes that happen during this postpartum period worsen her woes. The stress induced by the hormones together with the frenzied state sets the stage for migraine during breastfeeding.
What generally starts out as a dull ache soon transforms into a pulsating, throbbing and persistent one. A migraine-induced headache is usually experienced in the front or base or the head or the temples and is accompanied by dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Instead of popping your usual pills during this phase, it is advisable to manage migraine while lactating in a natural way. Here are some such solutions that could help you!
1. Get plenty of rest and relaxation
Rest and relaxation do seem to be a daunting tasking now, but it helps. Ask someone to babysit as you catch up with a nap. You can also find someone who can do the chores for you. Try gentle walking and some post-natal stretched to help you relax.
2. Apply a cold or warm compress
You can place a bag of frozen corn or peas over the area of pain to improve the circulation and ease the pain. You can also dip a soft, cotton cloth in warm water and use it as your warm compress. You can also heat an herbal pillow to be used as a safe solution for migraine.
3. Peppermint Essential Oil
Peppermint essential oil has rich anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that soothe the nerves and ease the pain. The antispasmodic property of this essential oil calms down the pulsating nerves and thus is beneficial for migraine headache. Add a couple of drops of the essential oil to your palm and rub the palms vigorously. Inhale the aroma released to do away with nausea and headache alike.
4. Ginger
According to a study that was published in the Phytotherapy Research in 2013, ginger is one of the safest natural cures for migraines. It blocks the prostaglandins that otherwise cause inflammation. It also has a wonderful scent that alleviates the nauseating experience. You can sip one or two cups of ginger tea a day to ease and prevent migraine and stress. Or, just chew a few slices of raw ginger for instant relief.
5. Basil Oil
The rich aromatic basil oil is a natural and safe treatment for migraine during breastfeeding. This essential oil is a muscle relaxant and analgesic and hence can be used to alleviate stress-induced migraine headaches.
6. Massage your scalp
According to various studies, massaging the area at the base of the skull can instantly alleviate the migraine pain. Add five camphor pieces to 1 tsp coconut oil and heat the mixture until smoking. Using this oil to massage the aforementioned area for better relief.
7. An apple a day keeps the migraine away
Munching on a green apple at the onset of a migraine attack can help in easing the headache and nausea. According to a study, the refreshing aroma of green apple can help in lowering the severity of the headache and lower the recurrences as well.
8. Lemons
There are various ways lemons can be used as a cure for migraine. It is blessed with immensely rich antioxidants that help in warding off the oxidative stress induced by free radicals. Grind 5 peels of lemon with a little water to make a thick paste. Apply it on your forehead as soon as your experience the headache. You can also prepare a thick concoction by mixing two tsp lemon juice with one tsp grated ginger and 1 tbsp honey. Keep sipping this mixture to ease the headache and nausea due to migraine.
Drink sufficient quantity of water as dehydration could also lead to migraines. Take a rest, whenever time permits and learn to relax. This will help you ease and prevent migraines.