Health Conditions

Hormonal headaches may be triggered by hormonal changes in the body. Most usually occurring as women begin their periods each month, hormonal changes also occur as young girls reach puberty, as women become pregnant, and as older women reach menopause. Taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills) may also cause hormonal headaches for some women ? especially when the pills are first started.

Women who have hormonal headaches may start headache medication about 2 days before the period starts and continue taking the headache medication until the period has ended. Commonly effective headache medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn). Prescription treatment options may have more serious side effects that require close monitoring by a healthcare provider. These medications should be used only if NSAIDs do not provide adequate relief. Ergot derivatives in oral tablets or suppositories can be used; however, individuals should be aware that ergot derivatives might be habit forming. Their common side effects include abdominal cramping, nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth. Patients should report muscle pains, numbness, coldness, or loss of color in their hands or feet to their physician immediately. Methysergide maleate (Sansert) was another potential treatment. However, methysergide mesylate has been discontinued for sale in the United States. While it may still be available in other countries, its side effects can be significant. If methysergide maleate is taken, its use must be supervised closely by a doctor who is familiar with its use.

<< Back

Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.