What Is a Menstrual Migraine (Period Migraine)?

A menstrual migraine, also known as a period migraine, is a type of migraine linked to changes in hormone levels around the time of a woman’s period [1]. These migraines usually happen in the days just before, during, or after menstruation. They can cause throbbing head pain and may come with other symptoms like nausea and sensitivity to light or sound.

What causes menstrual migraines?

Menstrual migraines are mainly caused by a drop in the hormone oestrogen just before a period starts [2][3]. This hormonal change can affect brain chemicals and trigger a migraine attack. Some women only get migraines around their period, while others may get them at different times in the month as well.

When do menstrual migraines happen?

They typically occur:

Two days before a period starts
During the first three days of menstruation

This timing can vary slightly from person to person but often follows a regular monthly pattern.

What are the symptoms of a menstrual migraine?

Symptoms are similar to other types of migraine and may include:

Throbbing or pulsating headache, often on one side of the head
Nausea or vomiting
Sensitivity to light, sound, or smells
Fatigue or low energy
Mood changes before or during the migraine

How is a menstrual migraine diagnosed?

A GP can help diagnose menstrual migraines based on your symptoms and a headache diary. You may be asked to track your migraines over at least three months, noting when they happen and how they relate to your menstrual cycle.

How are menstrual migraines treated?

Treatment depends on how severe and frequent the migraines are. Options include:

Pain relief– such as ibuprofen,naproxen, or paracetamol
Triptans – migraine-specific medication used to stop an attack
Anti-sickness medicines – if nausea is a problem
Preventive treatment – daily or short-term medicines to reduce attacks, sometimes used just before a period

Can menstrual migraines be prevented?

Yes, in some cases. Steps that may help reduce how often they happen include:

Maintaining regular sleep and meal times
Staying well hydrated
Managing stress with relaxation techniques
Keeping a regular exercise routine
Using hormone-based treatments, such as the contraceptive pill, under medical guidance

Are menstrual migraines different from regular migraines?

They feel similar, but menstrual migraines tend to last longer and may be harder to treat [4]. They are also more likely to return over several days if not managed early. Knowing the timing of your migraines can help with planning treatment in advance.

Key Takeaways

Menstrual migraines happen around the time of a woman’s period, triggered by hormone changes.
Symptoms include a throbbing headache, nausea, and sensitivity to light or sound.
Treatment includes pain relief, migraine-specific medicines, and hormone management if needed.
Keeping a headache diary can help identify patterns and improve treatment.
Healthy routines and trigger management can reduce how often migraines occur.

Reminder: If you have regular headaches linked to your period, speak to your GP. Effective treatments are available to help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Sources:

[1] Menstrual Migraine - Migraine Trust

[2] Raffaelli, B., Do, T.P., Chaudhry, B.A. et al. Menstrual migraine is caused by estrogen withdrawal: revisiting the evidence. J Headache Pain 24, 131 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s10194-023-01664-4

[3] Moy G, Gupta V. Menstrual-Related Headache. [Updated 2022 Oct 4]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557451/

[4] Menstrual Migraine - National Migraine Centre