PMS: Managing Headaches and Pain During Menstruation

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Hello Doctor, I occasionally experience premenstrual syndrome, primarily with migraines or neck and shoulder pain, which can be alleviated by taking a single dose of acetaminophen.
This occurs about five times a year.
Over the past year, I've noticed a decrease in premenstrual syndrome symptoms; instead, I experience migraines on the first or second day of my menstrual period, which also respond well to a single dose of acetaminophen.
Sometimes, I have a migraine on the first day of my period, it goes away on the second day, but I might experience some neck pain and mild migraine again on the third day.
However, these symptoms are not severe and do not occur every month.
I read online that people who experience migraines during their menstrual period can benefit from taking calcium supplements.
Is this effective? Many of my friends also experience menstrual migraines and rely on pain relievers; is there really no other option?

Wendy, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/09

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, taking calcium supplements may not be helpful.
If you often experience migraines during your menstrual period, it is advisable to visit a hospital for an examination.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/02/09

More Info

Managing headaches and pain during menstruation, particularly in the context of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual migraines, can be a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach. Your experience of experiencing migraines or tension headaches around your menstrual cycle is not uncommon, as many individuals report similar symptoms.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand the underlying mechanisms of menstrual-related headaches. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly the drop in estrogen levels just before menstruation, can trigger headaches in susceptible individuals. These headaches can manifest as migraines or tension-type headaches, often accompanied by other PMS symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness.

In your case, it seems that you have identified a pattern where headaches occur around the time of your menstrual cycle, particularly on the first or second day. The fact that you find relief with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (commonly known as Tylenol or Paracetamol) is a positive sign, indicating that your headaches may respond to analgesics. However, relying solely on medication for relief may not be the most effective long-term strategy.

Regarding your question about calcium supplements, there is some evidence suggesting that calcium may play a role in reducing the severity and frequency of menstrual migraines. Calcium is thought to help stabilize nerve function and may also influence the release of certain neurotransmitters involved in pain perception. Some studies have indicated that women with menstrual migraines may have lower calcium levels, and supplementation could potentially help alleviate symptoms. However, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, as they can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current medications.

In addition to calcium, there are several other strategies you might consider to manage menstrual headaches more effectively:
1. Lifestyle Modifications: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate hydration can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule is also crucial, as sleep disturbances can exacerbate headache symptoms.

2. Stress Management: Stress is a known trigger for headaches. Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress levels and may reduce headache frequency.

3. Dietary Considerations: Some individuals find that certain foods can trigger headaches. Keeping a food diary may help you identify any dietary triggers. Additionally, ensuring you have regular meals and snacks can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, which may also help prevent headaches.

4. Preventive Medications: If your headaches are frequent or severe, you might want to discuss preventive medications with your healthcare provider. Options may include hormonal treatments, such as birth control pills, which can help regulate hormone levels and potentially reduce headache frequency.

5. Alternative Therapies: Some individuals find relief through acupuncture, chiropractic care, or physical therapy. These therapies can help address tension in the neck and shoulders, which may contribute to headache symptoms.

6. Monitoring Symptoms: Keeping a headache diary can help you and your healthcare provider identify patterns and triggers associated with your headaches. This information can be invaluable in tailoring a treatment plan that works for you.

In summary, while over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen can provide temporary relief, exploring a combination of lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and possibly preventive treatments may offer more sustainable management of your menstrual headaches. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist or a gynecologist, can provide you with a comprehensive approach tailored to your specific needs. Remember, effective management often requires a personalized strategy, and what works for one individual may not work for another.

Similar Q&A

Severe Headaches During Menstruation: Causes and Treatment Options

During the second to fourth days of menstruation, I experience severe headaches and feelings of nausea. Taking painkillers does not always provide significant relief. Lying down or repeatedly pressing on my temples slightly alleviates the headache. My daily life is severely affec...

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Family Medicine
Based on your description, it sounds like a migraine. It would be advisable to consult a neurologist first.

Managing Menstrual-Related Migraines: Tips and Insights

I would like to ask some questions regarding migraines. I have been experiencing migraines since middle school, and I still have this issue now that I am in college. Later, my doctor advised me to observe if there are specific triggers. I noticed that my migraines mainly occur 1 ...

Dr. Du Haojie reply Neurology
Migraine has several triggering factors, and hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle are one of them. If the pain occurs too frequently, preventive medications along with adequate rest can help alleviate the symptoms.

Understanding and Managing the Struggles of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Hello, Doctor: Every time my menstrual period arrives, it becomes a torment for both my body and mind, and each time the symptoms are different. Sometimes I experience several days of excessive sleepiness (with a high body temperature, but no night sweats), and other times I suff...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Your symptoms may be a combination of premenstrual syndrome and somatic symptom disorder. This condition is more commonly encountered in obstetrics and gynecology. It is recommended to have a detailed discussion with an obstetrician-gynecologist, who may prescribe progeste...

Managing Menstrual Migraines: Expert Insights on Pain Relief Options

Hello, doctor. I saw a health report on Facebook stating that during menstruation, individuals who experience migraines and dizziness can take pain relievers or oral contraceptives to lower hormone levels and maintain balance, which may provide relief. If dizziness persists after...

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can indeed cause discomfort for some individuals. However, if discomfort occurs outside of menstruation, it is important to consider other underlying conditions. If there are concerns, it is best to discuss them in person for a more acc...