Headaches in women, especially migraines, are related to changes in the levels of estrogen. Levels of estrogen drop immediately before the start of your menstrual flow (menses). Premenstrual migraines regularly occur during or after the time when the female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, drop to their lowest levels.

Migraine attacks usually improve during pregnancy. However, some women have reported that their migraines started during the first trimester of pregnancy, and then went away.

In addition to a drop in estrogen, birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy for menopause can change the frequency or severity of migraines. If you notice your migraine headache getting worse after starting one of these medications, it may be worthwhile to ask your healthcare provider for a medication that contains a lower dose of estrogen, or ask for a change from an interrupted dosing regimen to a continuous one.

The symptoms of a menstrual migraine are the same as the symptoms for other types of migraines:

1. Headache pain that ranges from dull to a severe throb.

2. Feeling very warm (sweating) or cold (chills).

3. Sensitivity to light, noise and smells.

4. Tender scalp.

5. Loss of appetite.

6. Dizziness and blurred vision.

7. Pale skin color (pallor).

8. Feeling tired.

9. Nausea and vomiting, stomach upset, abdominal pain.

10. Diarrhea or fever (rare).

Sources – healthkart.com

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