Managing Menstrual Migraines
- Angela Nguyen
- 8 hours ago
- 2 min read
Many people who menstruate notice headaches around their period, but menstrual migraines are a specific, more intense pattern linked to hormonal shifts. In this case, being able to understand the cause and various relief options can make a real difference.
What Are Menstrual Migraines?
Menstrual migraines are migraine attacks that happen anywhere from two days before to three days after a period starts. They are mostly triggered by the drop in estrogen that occurs right before menstruation. For some people, this timing is so consistent that they start expecting migraines as part of their menstrual cycle.
How Do They Feel?
Menstrual migraines are often more severe and longer-lasting than migraines at other times.
Symptoms may include:
Throbbing head pain, especially on one side
Sensitivity to light or sound
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue or mental fog
Most occur without aura, though some people experience visual or sensory changes beforehand.
Why Hormones Trigger Them
A sudden decrease in estrogen can make the brain more sensitive to pain. Around this time, other common triggers like stress, sleep changes, dehydration, and skipped meals may also exacerbate migraines.
When to Talk to a Doctor
To help identify patterns, you can try to track your headaches and menstrual cycle for 2-3 months. Also, you should seek medical guidance if migraines:
Disrupt your daily activities
Don’t improve with over-the-counter medication
Present with persistent nausea or concerning neurological symptoms
Treatment Options
Consult with your clinician to figure out which treatment option will work best for you.
1. Acute Relief
These can be taken at the start of an attack:
NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen
Triptans like sumatriptan
Anti-nausea medications
Rest, hydration, and ice packs may also help.
2. Short-Term Prevention
These can be used before symptoms begin:
NSAIDs started a few days before your period
Preventive triptans for 4-5 days around menstruation
Magnesium supplements, which are often taken starting mid-cycle
3. Long-Term Prevention
For frequent or severe cases:
Continuous birth control to stabilize hormones
Daily preventive medications
Newer migraine-specific treatments like CGRP blockers or monthly injections
Lifestyle Strategies
Simple habits can reduce attacks:
Drink plenty of water
Keep a regular sleep schedule
Eat at consistent times
Manage stress with light exercise or relaxation techniques
Avoid personal food triggers
Use a cycle and headache tracking app
When to Seek Urgent Care
Sudden, extremely severe headache
Headache with fever, confusion, or stiff neck
Neurological symptoms lasting more than an hour
Headaches following a head injury
Living with Menstrual Migraines
Menstrual migraines are common and often treatable. If your headaches consistently occur with your period and affect your daily life, proper attention and care can still help manage symptoms. Tracking your symptoms and talking to a healthcare provider can help you find a prevention or treatment plan that offers real relief.
References
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