Studies have shown that women are three times more likely to have migraines than men. This differential does not begin until the females reach puberty. Sixty percent of women have headaches related to the menstrual cycle. About fourteen percent 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 more than problems. Menstrually related migraines are much more than estrogen fluctuating in the body. Serotonin, prostaglandin, norepinephrine, melatonin, and other chemical levels vary 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 beginning of menses. I have been informed about the simple option of taking naproxen 500 mg twice a day WITH FOOD during these five days. I am not sure about this option, but if you decide to do this, It is vital 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. Doctors have told me that Naproxen will not only help prevent migraines, but it will also help reduce cramping.
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.
