Why do they happen?
Oestrogen influences serotonin synthesis and pain sensitivity. Its sharp fluctuations during perimenopause activate the trigeminal pain pathways — the central mechanism of migraine. In postmenopause, as levels stabilise, many women experience improvement.
Most common types
- Hormonal migraine — linked to sudden oestrogen drops
- Tension headache — related to stress and cervical muscle tension
- Hot flash headache — after intense vasodilation episodes
Magnesium (400 mg/day) reduces hormonal migraine frequency by 41% in perimenopausal women. Most effective in bisglycinate or glycinate form taken before bed.
Preventive strategies
- Magnesium bisglycinate 300–400 mg/day before bed
- Regular sleep schedules — sleep deprivation is the main trigger
- Headache diary to identify personal triggers
- Constant hydration (at least 2 litres/day)
- Gradually reduce caffeine — excess reinforces pain
Life Extension Europe® Magnesium Glycinate
Magnesium bisglycinate (chelate) with high bioavailability and good digestive tolerance — the best-studied form for hormonal migraine. It provides 105 mg of elemental magnesium per capsule; adjust the number of capsules with your doctor or pharmacist to reach the recommended dose (300–400 mg/day).
Notice: this is not medical advice, but a suggestion for an over-the-counter product. Even though it is available without a prescription, consult your doctor before using it.
The information on this page is for general information only and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. If a symptom worries you or affects your daily life, talk to your doctor or gynaecologist.
