Menstrual migraine
Migraine attacks that cluster around menstruation, driven by the natural fall in oestrogen. Often longer, more severe and less responsive to usual treatment than attacks at other times of the cycle.
Affects up to ~20% of women who menstruate and have migraine
What menstrual migraine is
Menstrual migraine is migraine that reliably occurs in the days just before or during a period. It is linked to the natural fall in oestrogen in the late part of the cycle rather than to menstruation itself.
Two patterns are recognised: pure menstrual migraine, where attacks happen only around menstruation, and menstrually-related migraine, where attacks also occur at other times of the month.
Why it can be harder to treat
Perimenstrual attacks are often longer, more intense and more likely to recur than attacks at other times, so the plan usually combines confirmation with timed treatment.
- Tracking the cycle alongside attacks to confirm the link
- Timed acute treatment taken early in the attack
- Short-term preventive options around the predicted window where appropriate
- Reviewing hormonal contraception, especially where aura is present
From your story to a working plan
- 01The diary maps attacks against your cycle to confirm whether they are truly perimenstrual
- 02Your assessment flags where aura and hormonal contraception need a careful conversation
- 03You receive a plain-language summary; your GP receives a structured SOAP note where licensed
- 04Education covers timed treatment and the preventive options worth discussing
