Menstrual Migraines

Menstrual migraines often occur right after estrogen and progesterone levels drop just before the menstrual flow starts.

How are menstrual migraines treated?

The most effective way to treat menstrual migraines is by using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs).  They should be started two or three days before the onset of menstrual flow until it ends. Those NSAIDs include:

• Orudis®
• Advil® and Motrin®
• Nalfon®
• Naprosyn®
• Relafen®

Are there other medications for menstrual migraines?

Menstrual migraines are also treated by such prescribed medications as beta-blockers, anticonvulsants and calcium channel blockers. In refractory cases, medications that stabilize hormone levels may be used to help prevent menstrual migraines from occurring. Your OB/GYN may also suggest diuretics or a salt-restricted diet because fluid retention during the menstrual cycle can contribute to the severity of migraine.

What about migraines during pregnancy?

Often migraine headaches disappear during pregnancy. Though in some women, the first onset of migraines happens during their first trimester of pregnancy and stops after the third month of pregnancy. The usual medications for migraines should be avoided for pregnancy migraines. If treatment is needed during pregnancy, a mild analgesic is the safest option. But discuss any treatment with your OB/GYN first.

How are menopausal migraines treated?

Menopausal migraines can occasionally be caused by estrogen supplements. If you are considering using an estrogen supplement and are a migraine sufferer, you should start with the lowest dose and use it on an uninterrupted basis. In fact, an uninterrupted dose of estrogen often times alleviates menopausal migraines. Menopausal migraines can be treated. Please call the office to consult with Dr. Thomas if you suffer with menopausal migraines and are considering treatment.