Menstrual migraine: what it is, symptoms and treatment

Menstrual migraine is a headache that occurs during the menstrual period, generally between 2 days before and 3 days after the start of menstruation, and is related to hormonal changes during this period, and may be accompanied by common migraine symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light.

The main factor that contributes to its appearance is the reduction in estrogen levels during the menstrual period, which is also responsible for PMS symptoms, such as irritability and cramps. Therefore, in addition to migraine medications such as anti-inflammatories and triptans, hormonal contraceptives may also be indicated. Understand the main symptoms of PMS and how to alleviate it.

If you suspect a menstrual migraine, it is important to consult a neurologist or gynecologist to carry out a detailed evaluation, confirm the diagnosis and initiate appropriate treatment.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of menstrual migraine are:

• Headache between 2 days before and 3 days after the start of menstruation;
• Headache that worsens when you stop taking contraceptives;
• Headache on one side only;
• Sensation of pulsation in the head;
• Nausea and vomiting;
• Sensitivity/discomfort in bright or noisy environments;
• Pain worsens with physical activity or exertion;
• Discomfort when combing your hair or touching your head;

Menstrual migraine pain usually starts slowly and can become intense within a few hours to the point that it makes it difficult to carry out daily activities. Sometimes, sensations such as tingling, seeing bright spots, difficulty seeing or hearing may occur before or during the pain and generally improve in less than 1 hour.

In general, the characteristics of menstrual migraine are similar to those of common migraine. Understand better what migraines are and their symptoms.

Online symptom test

Menstrual migraine is a type of migraine. To find out if you have a migraine, please select the symptoms you are experiencing:

This test is a tool that only serves as a means of guidance and, therefore, is not intended to provide a diagnosis or replace consultation with a neurologist or general practitioner.

How the treatment is carried out

Treatment is usually carried out under the guidance of a neurologist or gynecologist, and may involve medications such as anti-inflammatories, triptans and contraceptives. Some natural alternatives such as ginger tea can also be used, but they do not replace treatment advised by a doctor. In addition, other measures such as sleeping and eating regularly are also important.

Migraine remedies

The most recommended medications for menstrual migraines are anti-inflammatories or triptans, which generally help to relieve pain during episodes. Furthermore, it may be recommended to use these medications during the menstrual period from about 2 days before the start until the 1st or 3rd day of menstruation, as a way to prevent pain from occurring.

When these medications are not enough to improve or prevent crises from occurring, other medication options include antidepressants, anticonvulsants or antihypertensives, which must be used daily for 2 to 3 months. Discover the main medications used to treat migraines.

Another alternative is hormonal supplementation through oral contraceptives, which can be indicated for short periods a month or even for continuous use. However, when a woman is already using hormonal contraceptives, only the dose can be adjusted.

Natural Treatment Options

Natural treatment for migraines involves the use of natural substances with calming and protective properties for the nervous system, such as tansy tea or valerian, for example. Check out more options for home treatments for migraines and how to prepare them.

Furthermore, it is recommended to have a diet rich in omega 3 and antioxidants, giving preference to foods such as fish, ginger or passion fruit, as they help prevent the onset of headaches. It is also important to remove stimulating foods from your diet, such as coffee. See what a diet should be like to avoid migraines.

Care to relieve migraine

Some good tips to combat menstrual migraines are:

1. Do not wait for the pain to become intense to use the medicine prescribed by your doctor to treat it;
2. Rest in case of pain;
3. Avoid places with lots of light or noise during crises;
4. Reduce the pace of work when a crisis occurs;
5. Breathe slowly when pain occurs;
6. Eat correctly, giving preference to fruits and vegetables;
7. Sleep in sufficient quantity and always at the same times;
8. Exercise regularly;
9. Avoid stress;
10. Decrease the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Activities such as walking, meditation or practicing hobbies can also be important, especially since stress is one of the main causes of migraines in women.