By Dr. Olivia Wickens, Associate Medical Director & Dr. Hannah Collins, Senior Research Physician
‘Not this time of the month again’ It’s a phrase echoed by women across the world as they face the physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms of the menstrual cycle.
Every day, approximately 300 million women are menstruating worldwide (1). Menstrual symptoms can be both physical as well as emotional and mood related symptoms. These can significantly disrupt daily life. The symptoms associated with menstruation vary between women, but for some women, symptoms can have a significant impact on daily life, for example, interfering with plans, absence from school or work, and impacting mental health (2).
Among the conditions linked to the menstrual cycle, menstrual migraines are particularly debilitating. Migraines are already more prevalent in women than men, and when they coincide with menstruation, they tend to be more severe. These menstrual migraines often strike in the days leading up to or during menstruation and are frequently triggered by hormonal fluctuations.
What causes menstrual migraines?
The menstrual cycle is a complex process driven by hormonal communication between the brain and reproductive system. One of the key triggers of menstrual migraines is the natural drop in oestrogen that occurs just before menstruation.
What we know about menstrual migraines:
- They typically occur 1–2 days before or during menstruation
- Triggered by the sudden decline in oestrogen levels
- Often more severe and disabling than other types of migraines
- Tend to last longer
- May not respond well to standard migraine treatments
Migraines are more than “just a headache.” They are disabling for many, affecting the whole body and causing symptoms, such as, brain fog, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and heightened sensitivity. Particularly for premenopausal women suffering from menstrual migraines where these symptoms are layered on top of already challenging period-related discomforts.
Current treatment options
Currently, standard treatment focuses on daily preventive medications. However, there are no approved therapies specifically designed for short-term, targeted prevention of menstrual migraines. This gap highlights the need for continued research into menstrual-related conditions and broader women’s health issues.
Get involved
If you are a woman who suffers from menstrual migraines and are interested in participating in research, please contact 03300 553327 or register for our clinical trial online. Your involvement could help drive the development of more effective, targeted treatments for menstrual migraine and improve quality of life for millions of women.
