What is the recommended treatment for menstrual migraines?

The recommended treatment for menstrual migraines is to use an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) or a triptan a couple of days before the expected onset of the period. This approach is based on the understanding that menstrual migraines are typically triggered by hormonal fluctuations associated with the menstrual cycle.

Starting treatment a few days prior to the period aims to preemptively manage the migraine by addressing the anticipated hormone changes that can provoke these headaches. NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain, while triptans are specifically designed to treat migraine headaches by constricting blood vessels and alleviating other migraine symptoms.

Other options, such as lifestyle changes, can be beneficial for general migraine management but may not be sufficient alone for menstrual migraines, which often require more targeted pharmacological intervention. Low-dose aspirin can provide some relief for headaches but is generally less effective than NSAIDs or triptans for this specific type of migraine. Antidepressants may be helpful in managing chronic migraines or other types of headaches, but they are not considered a first-line treatment for menstrual migraines specifically.