What's Worse Than PMS? - PMS and Premenstrual Migraine

About 15% of women are known to have migraine. Half of these, their migraines occur within a few days before or after their period - usually in the week or next. Some also get migraines in the middle of their cycle when they ovulate.

How does the menstrual cycle work?

This cycle is controlled by the hormones released by the ovaries in the reproductive system and the pituitary gland in the brain. The average cycle is 28 days. After the woman's period is over, estrogen levels increase to help the uterus to thicken - it prepares for the egg to grow and grow.

In the middle of the cycle, the ovaries release eggs. This is called ovulation. If the eggs are not fertilized by the sperm and are grown, progesterone levels drop and the uterus comes out. This is called period or menstruation. The cycle is then repeated.

It is thought that fluctuations in hormone levels are what can trigger migraines - not the actual levels themselves.

Looking back at that time of the month

Many women suspect their period is coming because they know it can lead to migraines. Some people say that premenstrual migraine is worse than 'normal'. Part of the reason is that women also experience other symptoms of menstruation, such as:

• backache


• nausea


• soft breasts


• feeling bloated


• stomachache


• foot pain


• feel more tired than usual


• feel the emotions deep down and down.

Migraine over all is very unpleasant.

Is taking a pill carrying migraine?

For a period of time, many women experience intense food cravings. These often include chocolate, which is considered a trigger for migraines.

What help is there for meningococcal migraine?

Three key areas need to be found to help and improve migraine:

• Changes in diet: Limit caffeine, avoid known triggers, eat regularly to avoid sugar levels.


• Medicines: painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs and medications that work on the blood vessels can help migraine


• Examine possible causes: pressure, high blood pressure.

Another possible treatment is to try and prevent migraine by delaying the duration. Taking contraceptive pills combined without rest for three rounds is recommended. Migraines can occur during the week of pill-free but this is especially true with contraceptive pills containing high levels of progestogen. Taking pills with higher estrogen levels can help.

This can reduce the chances of having a migraine window for 5 weeks a year instead of 13. Other treatments include estrogen or cream drops. For more information on any of these, consult your doctor.

Please pay attention that a migraine treatment or a contraceptive pill containing estrogen is not suitable for women with estrogen-positive breast cancer. (The woman is expected to have tamoxifen for five years after cancer treatment.)

Remember, if in doubt, see your doctor.

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