Why do I get a headache when I get my period?
Many women experience headaches during or before menstruation, a phenomenon known as "menstrual headaches" or "hormonal headaches." Here's a closer look at the problem, including possible causes, symptoms, relief methods, and relevant data.
1. Common causes of menstrual headaches

Menstrual headaches are often related to changes in hormone levels in the body, especially fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone. The following are possible reasons:
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| drop in estrogen levels | Estrogen levels drop sharply before menstruation, which may trigger headaches. |
| prostaglandin release | Prostaglandin levels increase during menstruation, which may cause vasoconstriction and headaches. |
| dehydration | Increased fluid loss during menstruation can lead to mild dehydration and headaches. |
| stress and anxiety | Mood swings before menstruation may worsen headache symptoms. |
2. Symptoms of menstrual headache
Symptoms of menstrual headaches may be similar to those of regular migraines or tension headaches, but are often related to the menstrual cycle. The following are common symptoms:
| Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|
| Unilateral or bilateral headache | The pain may be concentrated on one or both sides of the head. |
| throbbing pain | The headache may be throbbing or throbbing. |
| accompanied by nausea or vomiting | Some women may experience digestive discomfort. |
| Sensitive to light or sound | May be more sensitive to bright light or noise. |
3. How to relieve menstrual headaches
Here are some methods that may help relieve menstrual headaches:
| method | Description |
|---|---|
| stay hydrated | Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. |
| Regular schedule | Get enough sleep and avoid staying up late. |
| moderate exercise | Mild exercise such as yoga or walking may help relieve headaches. |
| Hot or cold compress | Use hot or cold compresses to relieve pain, depending on personal preference. |
| drug treatment | Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen may be effective, but only as directed by your doctor. |
4. When Do You Need Medical Treatment?
If your headache seriously affects your quality of life or is accompanied by the following symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly:
| Symptoms | Possible problem |
|---|---|
| severe headache | It could be a sign of a migraine or other serious illness. |
| vision changes | May indicate migraine with aura or other neurological problems. |
| persistent vomiting | Medical intervention may be required. |
| increased frequency of headaches | Treatment may need to be adjusted. |
5. Suggestions for preventing menstrual headaches
Here are some ways to prevent menstrual headaches in the long term:
| Suggestions | Description |
|---|---|
| Keep a headache diary | Record headache time, symptoms and triggers to help doctors diagnose. |
| Adjust diet | Reduce your intake of caffeine, alcohol and high-salt foods. |
| hormone therapy | Under the guidance of a doctor, use birth control pills or other hormonal therapies to regulate your cycle. |
| Stress Reduction Techniques | Learn stress-reducing techniques such as meditation and deep breathing. |
6. Summary
Menstrual headaches are a common phenomenon, often related to hormone fluctuations, dehydration, or stress. Headaches can be effectively relieved or prevented by adjusting your lifestyle, using medications appropriately, and recording symptoms. If symptoms are severe or occur frequently, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to rule out other underlying health problems.
I hope this article helps you better understand menstrual headaches and find appropriate relief!
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