Open Access
07-01-2025 | Headache Disorders | Uncommon and/or Unusual Headaches and Syndromes (F Cohen, Section Editor)
Neuromodulation for Headache Management in Pregnancy
Authors:
Liza Smirnoff, Michelle Bravo, Tayina Hyppolite
Published in:
Current Pain and Headache Reports
|
Issue 1/2025
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Abstract
Purpose of Review
Management of primary headache disorders during pregnancy is limited due to known teratogenicity or unknown safety of many currently available pharmaceutical therapies. Here, we explore the safety and efficacy of non-invasive neuromodulatory devices as another treatment modality for pregnant patients.
Recent Findings
There are six FDA-cleared, non-invasive neuromodulatory devices currently available for the management of headache that include remote electrical neuromodulation (REN), noninvasive vagal nerve stimulation (nVNS), external trigeminal nerve stimulation (eTNS), single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation (sTMS), and external concurrent occipital and trigeminal neurostimulation (eCOT-NS).
Summary
Neuromodulatory devices are a safe, effective, and well tolerated non-pharmacological option for migraine and other primary headache disorders. Although evidence of safety and tolerability use in pregnancy is limited, they may serve as a therapeutic alternative or adjunct to improve the care of our pregnant patients.