Menstrual migraine: The hormone-linked headache many dread

Menstrual migraine is a form of migraine that follows a monthly pattern, appearing shortly before or during a period. It is not simply a bad headache. Attacks can involve intense, pulsing pain, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and strong sensitivity to light, sound, or smells. For some, daily routines become almost impossible until the episode passes.

The main driver is thought to be hormonal change, particularly the sharp fall in oestrogen that happens just as menstruation begins. This shift can affect chemical pathways in the brain that control pain, making certain people especially prone to migraines at this time of the cycle. Those who already experience migraine for other reasons often notice that their worst attacks cluster around their period.

One feature of menstrual migraine is its predictability. Because it tends to strike at similar points each month, keeping track of cycle dates and symptoms can be extremely useful. This record can help people and their doctors anticipate attacks rather than simply reacting once pain has started.

Management usually combines lifestyle habits with medication. Eating regularly, staying hydrated, keeping sleep patterns steady, and reducing stress around high-risk days may lessen severity. Some take pain-relieving or migraine-specific medicines at the first sign of symptoms, or even just before attacks are expected. In certain cases, hormonal approaches are used to smooth fluctuations.

Although menstrual migraine can feel relentless, understanding the pattern is a powerful first step. With tailored treatment and planning, many people find they can reduce disruption and regain control of their month.