Restore Balance to
Headaches During Period
Not all period-related headaches are the same. Understanding the type of headache you experience helps identify the most helpful form of relief.
Menstrual migraines are a specific type of headache directly triggered by the oestrogen drop before menstruation. They typically occur within two days before your period starts through the first three days of bleeding.
The condition follows a predictable pattern, occurring consistently with most or all menstrual cycles. Tracking your headaches alongside your cycle helps confirm this diagnosis.
(linked to stress or fatigue)
Tension-type headaches during menstruation feel different from migraines. They create a band-like pressure or tightness around your entire head, often described as a “vice grip” sensation.
Tension headaches are typically less severe than migraines but can last longer, sometimes persisting throughout your period. They respond well to muscle relaxation, stress reduction, and postural improvements.
(before vs after your period)
From a TCM perspective, the timing of your headaches reveal important information about its cause:
Timing tells us the story of what your body needs.
Western perspective
The dramatic oestrogen decline just before menstruation is the primary trigger for most period-related headaches. Women with naturally higher oestrogen levels or greater oestrogen fluctuations throughout their cycle tend to experience more severe hormonal headaches.
Your body’s needs change during menstruation, and failing to adjust can trigger or worsen headaches. Skipping meals, caffeine withdrawal, high sugar intake, and poor rest can all trigger headaches or make them more intense.
Certain health conditions worsen menstrual headaches or cause severe period-related pain:
If headaches began suddenly or feel severe, professional assessment is recommended.
TCM PERSPECTIVE
Stress and emotional tension.
In TCM, the Liver system is responsible for the smooth movement of Qi (energy) throughout the body. Work stress, frustration, or prolonged tension can cause this energy to become stuck or stagnant. The headaches typically begin before menstruation starts and may improve once bleeding begins and Qi has a downward pathway to move through.
Not enough nourishment during menstruation.
In TCM, Blood is more than the red fluid in your veins. It represents the nourishing, moistening essence that supports all tissues and organs. Blood deficiency means your body lacks adequate resources to properly nourish all areas, particularly during menstruation when Blood is directed toward the uterus. The headaches reflect that there simply isn’t enough Blood to adequately nourish the head whilst supporting menstruation.
Constriction and pain.
When circulation becomes sluggish or obstructed, Blood cannot flow smoothly through the vessels. In TCM, this is called Blood stasis. Cold further slows movement and causes constriction, intensifying pain. The key characteristic is that warmth consistently improves symptoms, whether through heating pads, warm drinks, or moxibustion treatment.
Herbal formulas to nourish Blood and move Qi
Our TCM pills and syrup are formulated to match your specific pattern of imbalance. Traditional herbs influence hormone receptors, reduce prostaglandin synthesis, improve cerebral blood flow, and modulate pain pathways. Unlike many pharmaceutical painkillers that simply block pain signals, herbal formulas work to resolve the underlying imbalance creating the headaches.
Acupuncture for hormonal balance and pain relief
Our acupuncture sessions provides immediate relief whilst supporting long-term hormonal regulation and pain prevention. Treatment timing matters. Weekly acupuncture sessions leading up to menstruation can prevent headaches from developing. Treatment during acute headaches often provides rapid relief, with many women noticing pain reduction within 20-30 minutes.
Moxibustion and gentle heat therapy
Our moxibustion sessions involves burning dried mugwort herb near specific acupuncture points to warm the body and improve circulation. This technique is particularly effective for Cold-type headaches that improve with heat.
Whilst occasional menstrual headaches are common, certain patterns and symptoms warrant professional evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and effective treatment.
Seek professional help if your headaches:
Your first TCM consultation at Wo.men Matters typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes, allowing you to be fully heard.
This includes
Current symptoms, menstrual history, medications, past treatments, lifestyle factors
Your energy levels, digestion, sleep, temperature preferences, emotional state
Pulse diagnosis, tongue examination, and abdominal palpation if required
If you’re suffering from headaches during your period, natural support is available.
At Wo.men Matters, our TCM physicians combine herbal medicine, acupuncture, and lifestyle guidance to help women find balance and relief.
Book a consultation to begin your journey with us towards pain-free periods.
