Common Misconceptions About Period Migraines

When it comes to period migraines, there’s a lot of confusion and misinformation out there. Many people brush them off as just “bad PMS” or think they’re something you just have to live with, but that’s far from the truth. These migraines are real, painful, and can seriously affect your daily life.

Unfortunately, common myths can make it harder to get the right support or treatment.

In this section, we’ll clear up some of the biggest misconceptions about period migraines, so that you are more informed to manage them.

Misconception 1: Menstrual migraines are just regular migraines.

Fact: Menstrual migraines are specifically triggered by hormonal changes, particularly the drop in estrogen levels before menstruation. They can be more severe and longer-lasting than regular migraines.

Science: The most common cause of menstrual migraine is the decline in serum estrogen (estradiol) levels that occurs shortly before and during the peri-menstrual time period.

Misconception 2: Over-the-counter painkillers are the only treatment for menstrual migraines.

Fact: While over-the-counter painkillers can help, other treatments like hormonal therapy, prescription medications, lifestyle changes, nutritional supplements, and dietary adjustments can also be effective in managing menstrual migraines.

Science: Treatment for period migraines typically includes a combination of acute pain management and preventive therapies, tailored to address hormonal fluctuations and migraine-specific symptoms. Treatment of period migraine should be individualized according to the patient’s symptom profile and should include nonpharmacological and pharmacological interventions.

Misconception 3: Only women who have irregular periods get menstrual migraines.

Fact: Menstrual migraines can affect women with both regular and irregular periods.

Science: The key factor is the hormonal fluctuation, not the regularity of the menstrual cycle.

Misconception 4: Menstrual migraines are not related to other types of migraines.

Fact: Menstrual migraines are a subtype of migraines and share many characteristics with other migraine types, such as throbbing pain, sensitivity to light and sound, and nausea. However, they are specifically linked to hormonal changes in the menstrual cycle.