What is Menstrual Migraine ?

Menstrual migraines, also known as hormone related headaches. Menstrual migraines are result in headaches with in 2 days before a woman's period or after the first three days of her menstrual period. It can be worsened by movement, light, smell or sound. Headaches may be extending 3 days.

Migraine attacks are three times more common in women than in men. And also, two third (2/3) of migraine patients are women. 60% - 70% of these women report that there is a relationship between menstrual periods and migraine attacks.  

What causes of menstrual migraine?

Estrogen and progesterone are two main sex hormones in women.

Estrogen is responsible for female physical characteristics, initiates puberty and aids reproduction. It also affects cholesterol balance, controls the menstrual cycle, maintains bone health, and affects the heart, skin, bone, brain, and other tissues.

It is mostly produced by the ovaries. Estrogen levels are variable throughout a cycle. It is highest in the middle of the menstrual cycle and low in menstruation. At menopause, it reaches its lowest level.

Headaches in women, particularly migraines, are associated with changes in estrogen levels. Estrogen levels drop just before the onset of menstruation. Menstrual migraine; It occurs during or after estrogen and progesterone drop to their lowest levels.