Bad headache 5 days post partum

[duende]

I had my lovely DD 6 days ago. It was an uncomplicated VB, with gas and air and pethidine. Yesterday I got a bad headache which hasn't stopped since. I've taken some paracetamol but it doesn't really help. I'm breastfeeding. I had my blood pressure checked yesterday and it was higher than in pregnancy but still within the normal range. (I think 110/80)

I suffered with bad headaches after having DS but I was convinced they were a side effect of the epidural, which I didn't have this time.

Any experiences and ideas what could be causing them and how to help myself?

Did they check your urine for excessive protein?

As I understand it you can get post partum pre eclampsia but it's rare.

Much more likely is that your blood pressure is high due to tiredness, physical strain on your body and dehydration. The dehydration wouldn't help your headache either.

So I'd probably start by trying to rest where possible and getting lots and lots of drinks but if it gets worse then get checked out.

That said, I have zero medical qualifications!

Thanks, Patilla. They haven't checked my urine, no.
I think you're right and it's probably a mix od tiredness and dehydration. I'm making sure I'm drinking plenty today and eating regularly and will see how I am in a couple of days.

Why not get a telephone consult wirh yr GP oe MW?

Better safe than sorry.

How are you now OP?

Could it be migraine? You have my sympathy anyway- the drop in hormones gave me the mother of all migraines with DD. Awful when you have a newborn. Went straight back on progesterone pill which totally sorted it. Or try 900mg asprin- if u can take that...

Hi, I had this for a couple of weeks after having DD earlier this year. It's fairly common. That said, it's probably worth mentioning to the MW just in case. PN pre-eclamsia can happen.

Thanks everyone. I'm better now. I think today was the first day it was gone completely. I think it was a combination of hormonal changes, tiredness and dehydration.
Thank you again!