Women are three times more likely to have migraines than men. This differential does not begin until the females reach puberty. Sixty per cent of women have migraines related to the menstrual cycle. About fourteen per cent have migraines purely coordinated with menses. Could menstrually related migraines be solely linked to estrogen? That would be like saying migraines are only headaches. We now know migraines are much, much more than headaches. Menstrually related migraines are much more than estrogen fluctuating in the body. Serotonin, prostaglandin, norepinephrine, melatonin, and other chemical levels fluctuate with the menstrual cycle. Each plays some role in menstrual related migraines.
Menstrual migraines usually start between two days before the onset of menses and two days after the onset of menses. A simple option is to take naproxen 500 mg twice a day WITH FOOD during these five days. It is important to take anti-inflammatory medicine with food to help prevent stomach ulcer formation. Do not take if you have a history of ulcers, bleeding problems, or allergy to aspirin. Naproxen will not only help prevent migraines, but it will also help reduce cramping. Certain over-the counter supplements can be helpful.
NEVER take triphasic birth control pills. Even women who do not have menstrual migraines seem to do better on monophasic birth control pills. Oral contraceptives can come in packs with different color pills