Menstrual migraines are not like typical headaches; they are dictated by hormonal changes and are often accompanied by intense and prolonged pain. There are pharmaceuticals to help manage these, but many opt for natural home remedies to alleviate symptoms.
Understanding Menstrual Migraines
Menstrual migraines are a type of headache linked specifically to a woman’s menstrual cycle. They are typically more severe than standard migraines and have a longer duration. They are usually experienced two days before the arrival of the menstrual cycle or over the first few days of bleeding. The main trigger is the decrease in estrogen that takes place before the onset of the menstrual cycle.
Common triggers that can exacerbate menstrual migraines include:
- A sudden drop in estrogen levels
- Natural hormonal changes across the menstrual cycle
- Birth control or hormone replacement therapies
- Irregular eating patterns
- Disturbed sleep during menstruation
- Stress or emotional tension
- Exposure to bright lights or loud sounds
- Dehydration
- Withdrawal from caffeine
- Lack of sleep
- Consumption of certain foods like old cheese or processed meats
- Alcohol
Top Home Remedies for Menstrual Migraines
There’s no need to suffer in silence, or be entirely reliant on medication. The following home treatments can help ease the pain and provide some relief.
Use of CEFALY Connected
CEFALY Connected is a potential solution for those who frequently experience migraines and are in search of a non-pharmaceutical treatment. This wearable device stimulates the trigeminal nerve associated with migraines by emitting gentle electric shocks via an electrode placed on the forehead. A connected application allows you to monitor your sessions and progress.
Magnesium Supplements
Magnesium supplements can help prevent menstrual migraines, as studies suggest women with hormone-related migraines often have lower magnesium levels. Consider adding leafy greens, nuts, seeds, or some dark chocolate to your diet to increase magnesium intake.
Application of Essential Oils
The topical application of essential oils such as peppermint and lavender may offer temporary relief.
Cold Compress
A cold compress can help manage the pain associated with migraines. Regular application of a cold compress at the onset or peak of a migraine can help alleviate pain.
Moderate Caffeine Intake
Moderate caffeine intake can help manage migraine pain, especially during the early stages of the headache.
Yoga and Light Exercise
Practicing yoga, Pilates, or taking light walks a few times a week can help reduce stress and improve blood flow, preventing migraines.
Drinking Herbal Teas
Herbal teas like ginger, feverfew and chamomile could help alleviate headache symptoms.
Staying Hydrated
Keep your water intake up during your menstrual cycle to ward off dehydration, a common migraine trigger.
Over-The-Counter Pain Medication
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help alleviate pain associated with migraines.
Warm Baths or Showers
Taking warm baths or showers, especially with Epsom salts, can help relieve body tension and total discomfort during a menstrual migraine.
Acupressure
The acupressure technique, which is grounded in traditional Chinese medicine, can help alleviate pain associated with migraines.
Maintaining Good Sleep Hygiene
Quality sleep is a long-term strategy for migraine prevention.
Recognizing and Handling Symptoms
A key strategy in managing menstrual migraines is tracking your symptoms.
Be sure to note down the following:
- The start and end time of your migraine
- Where you are in your menstrual cycle
- The severity of your pain
- Any aura or warning signs like light sensitivity, changed vision, nausea or mood swings
- What you’ve consumed
- Your sleep duration
- Your stress levels
- Any treatments applied and their effectiveness
Managing Your Monthly Migraines
Everyone is unique, and not one cure fits all when it comes to migraines. Try out these home treatments for menstrual migraines to find what works for you.
