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Pain Relief Tips for Menstrual Migraines

Migraines are debilitating pains that are most often located on one side of the head. According to "Menstrual Migraines" (Susan Hutchinson, et al, 2008), migraines just before or during the menstrual cycle happens to 50 percent of women who suffer from migraines. Many women stop having migraines when they are in menopause. For women who can't wait that long, there are many legal pain relief options.

  1. Medication

    • Two basic types of menstrual migraine medications are available--preventative and painkilling. Preventative medications are prescribed off-label for menstrual migraines. Their original function generally has nothing to do with migraines. They need to be taken every day in the hope of preventing attacks. These include blood pressure medications, anti-depressants and anti-seizure medications. Painkillers, to stop the pain of an attack, work best if they are taken as soon as the woman realizes an attack is going to happen or has already begun. These medications include over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as acetaminophen and prescription medications such as ergotamine or triptans.

    Waiting Period

    • Painkillers can take up to an hour to kick in. That hour will feel like eternity when in the grips of a migraine. The most important thing to do while waiting for the painkiller to work is to relax. This can happen with deep breathing, mediation or by inhaling therapeutic aromatherapy lavender or peppermint oil. These oils encourage the body to breathe more deeply. Placing a cool washcloth or ice pack on the forehead or over the eyes also can promote relaxation. If sounds suddenly seem too loud, then go to a quiet room and turn on a white noise machine or a radio playing static to help soothe ear pain.

    Other Tips

    • According to NBC contributing physician Dr. Judith Reichman, all types of migraines, including menstrual migraines, are usually the symptom of another underlying medical condition, such as depression or insomnia. By treating those conditions, the migraines should improve. In the meantime, women should make sure they get enough sleep and pay attention to what they eat because some foods trigger migraines. These include caffeinated drinks, lunchmeat and aged cheeses.

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