Understanding Menstrual Migraine Headaches

Migraines are a common and often debilitating type of headache, but for many women, they can be closely linked to their menstrual cycle. These are known as menstrual migraines, and they affect a significant number of women of reproductive age. Unlike typical migraines, menstrual migraine headaches are triggered by hormonal fluctuations, just before or during menstruation.

By Amy Angus, ND

If you’re among the many women who experience this type of migraine, understanding the connection between your cycle and these headaches can be the first step toward finding relief. In this post, Amy Angus explores what menstrual migraines are, why they happen, how they differ from other migraines, and most importantly, how you can manage and prevent them.

Menstrual migraines are typically worse due to fluctuations of oestrogen levels and low progesterone. Other hormones are also associated with the exacerbation of menstrual migraines including high prolactin, which can increase trigeminal pain associated with migraines.

Treating Menstrual Migraines

When it comes to treating menstrual migraines, the first steps I take are to reduce the inflammation and pain associated with migraines whilst identifying the cause of the migraines.

Some of my investigations include:

• Hormonal testing: elevated oestrogen leads to greater crashes of oestrogen (oestrogen withdrawal) right before the period starts. Elevated oestrogen also encourages the production of prostaglandins and histamines, two inflammatory markers also associated with migraines. I frequently use the DUTCH test to accurately assess how much progesterone, oestrogen and other hormones are playing a role here.

• Gastrointestinal (GIT) assessment: symptoms of IBS are associated with an increased risk of menstrual migraines.

• Blood testing: nutritional deficiencies, especially vitamin D have been shown to influence the prevalence of menstrual migraines.

Once I have assessed the results of the tests I have decided to utilise to identify the cause of the migraines, I can develop an evidence-based treatment plan to reduce the severity and frequency of menstrual migraine headaches, ultimately preventing their reoccurrence.

Magnesium is still one of the most beneficial products for menstrual migraines, primarily due to its effect on pain pathways and hormones, however, it is important to ensure you are taking an adequate dose of the correct form of magnesium.

Some other products I like to use include Turmeric, Saffron, PEA, tryptophan, acetyl L-carnitine, and essential fatty acids.

If you suffer from menstrual migraines, click here to book in with Amy for further investigation and treatment.