Maternal health experts in Nigeria are warning new mothers not to disregard persistent headaches following childbirth, emphasizing that these symptoms may point to serious health conditions. Experts noted that while occasional headaches can happen due to hormonal changes or stress, those that persist or are severe could indicate serious health concerns such as postpartum pre-eclampsia or hypertensive disorders.

Obstetricians highlighted that headaches, particularly after caesarean deliveries where spinal anaesthesia is used, could be due to spinal fluid leakage, a condition referred to as spinal headache. This suggests a need for mothers to seek medical evaluation if experiencing such headaches, rather than assuming they are just a part of the postpartum experience. Infections, reactions to medications, or high blood pressure might also be contributors to these persistent symptoms.

Additionally, the gynaecologists mentioned that while hormonal shifts and other lifestyle changes after pregnancy can lead to headaches, they reiterated that mothers should not accept chronic headaches as a normal part of post-delivery life. Instead, they should access proper medical care to investigate and manage any alarming symptoms to ensure their health and recovery.