Top 3 Expert-Recommended Tips to Manage Hormones and Relieve Migraines

Top 3 Expert-Recommended Tips to Manage Hormones and Relieve Migraines: First let’s understand the function of each hormone related to PMS and menopause.

Hormonal Changes

In PMS (premenstrual syndrome), estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle, leading to various symptoms such as bloating, mood swings, breast tenderness, and headaches. Estrogen helps to thicken the lining of the uterus in preparation for pregnancy. Progesterone prepares the uterus for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

During menopause, the levels of estrogen and progesterone decline as the ovaries stop producing eggs. Estrogen plays a role in various bodily functions such as bone density, cholesterol levels, and vaginal health. Progesterone is important for preparing the uterus for pregnancy and maintaining pregnancy. The decline in these hormones can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood changes.

In addition to estrogen and progesterone, other hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) also play a role in menopause. FSH stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries, while LH triggers the release of an egg during ovulation. As the ovaries stop functioning during menopause, FSH and LH levels increase as the body tries to stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs, leading to irregular periods and other symptoms.

Overall, the hormones fluctuations can lead to a range of physical (i.e. Migraines) and emotional symptoms.

What Hormones cause a migraine and why?

Estrogen is thought to have a protective effect on the brain. It helps to regulate blood flow and prevents the constriction of blood vessels. However, when estrogen levels drop, the blood vessels in the brain may dilate, leading to migraines. This is why women who experience migraines often report more frequent headaches around the time of their menstrual cycle, when estrogen levels are lower.

Progesterone can cause changes in blood vessel walls and alter levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which can contribute to migraines.

In addition other hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) may also play a role in migraines, particularly during menopause. As the levels of estrogen and progesterone decline during menopause, FSH and LH levels increase, which can trigger migraines.

I found also Mayo Clinic’s article that explains the connection between Hormones and Headaches. Includes tips to prevent this condition during the many stages in our cycle.

Expert-Recommended Tips

There are several things that women can do to manage hormone levels and potentially relieve or mitigate migraines:

1. Birth control: can help regulate hormone levels and reduce the frequency and severity of migraines. This is because they can help stabilize estrogen and progesterone levels throughout the menstrual cycle.
2. Lifestyle changes: such as regular exercise, stress management techniques (such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga), and getting enough sleep.
3. Dietary changes: reducing caffeine intake and avoiding trigger foods (such as chocolate, cheese, and processed meats).