For many women, periods can bring more than just cramps and mood swings– they also tend to bring period headaches. These intense migraines can make it difficult to go about daily duties and significantly impact well-being.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) consists of mood swings, bloating, fatigue and headaches. However, menstrual migraines are usually much more intense than PMS headaches and are directly associated with hormonal changes. While the headache from PMS may be felt as a dull ache or pressure over the forehead and temples, migraines that occur during menstruation are often characterised by:
- Pulsating or throbbing pain
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
- Vomiting or nausea
In these cases, the difference involves intensity, symptoms, and triggers, whereas menstrual migraines usually need more specific treatment approaches and management.
Types of menstrual migraines
1. Pure Menstrual Migraine:
- They are strictly linked to the menstrual phase, which begins two days before menstruation and lasts through the third day of the cycle.
- These migraines are consistent, occurring in at least 2 out of 3 cycles.
- They do not arise at other times during the menstrual cycle.
- These occur in women who experience migraines without any neurological disturbances before or during the episode. These disturbances involve visual, sensory, or speech changes, and are called aura.
2. Period Related Migraine:
- Like pure menstrual migraines, they occur two days before menstruation and persist until the third day, in at least 2 out of 3 cycles.
- They can also appear during other phases of the menstrual cycle.
- These also occur in women who meet the criteria for migraine without aura.
Why Do I Get Menstrual Migraines?
Menstrual migraines are closely linked to hormonal changes. During a typical menstrual cycle:
- Oestrogen levels rise in the first half of the cycle (follicular phase) to prepare for ovulation.
- After ovulation, oestrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate in preparation for a possible pregnancy.
- If pregnancy does not occur, both hormones drop sharply before menstruation begins.
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This sudden hormonal shift can trigger migraines in women who are sensitive to these changes.
Other contributing factors also include dehydration, stress, lack of sleep and more.
Note- The location of period headaches and the nature of the pain can differ based on individual triggers and sensitivities, but the symptoms often align with classic migraine patterns.
How to Manage Menstrual Migraines
Dealing with menstrual migraines requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some effective solutions:
1. Medications
- Treat Menstrual Migraines at home: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can be effective if taken early.
- Consult a doctor: Speak to your general physician about medication specific to your body and symptoms to determine the best option. If the symptoms are severe, preventive medications such as beta-blockers or anti-seizure drugs may be prescribed.
2. Lifestyle Adjustments
- Stay hydrated: Aim for at least 2-3 litres of water daily, especially during your period.
- Eat regularly: Small, frequent meals can stabilise blood sugar levels and prevent headaches.
- Prioritise sleep: Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule can reduce migraine frequency.
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Stress Management: Yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can lower stress levels and decrease migraine triggers.
Yoga and meditation are effective stress management techniques to decrease migraine triggers.
3. Track Your Cycle
- Understanding when migraines occur can help identify patterns and predict when they might strike. This can help you plan your days accordingly.
- Calendars or apps like Flo or Clue can help you monitor your cycle and symptoms.
4. Natural Remedies
- Essential oils: Lavender or peppermint oil can be applied to the temples for mild relief.
- Acupuncture: This traditional practice may help reduce migraine frequency for some women.
When to Seek Help
While occasional hormonal headaches can be managed with self-care and medication, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if:
- Migraines are frequent or debilitating.
- Over-the-counter medications aren’t effective.
- You experience symptoms like visual disturbances, confusion, or difficulty speaking.
Understanding the difference between PMS headaches and menstrual migraines, identifying their triggers, and implementing effective solutions can empower women to take control of their symptoms. A tailored treatment plan can make a significant difference in managing menstrual migraines and improving your quality of life.
Sources :
Cleveland Clinic - Menstrual Migraines (Hormone Headaches)
National headache foundation - Menstrual Migraine
NCBI - Menstrual-Related Headache
