It's known that oestrogen produces changes in prostaglandins, hypothalamic opioids and prolactin secretion which may trigger headaches. If you notice a cyclic rhythm to your headaches (hormonal headaches), achieving hormonal balance is imperative to preventing the recurrence of these types of headaches.
Fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone levels can make headaches worse, so stabilising these will help reduce the frequency of headaches. Many women report having headaches before or during menstruation. Also, because of the changes in oestrogen and progesterone around ovulation, some women report headaches around the middle of the cycle. The build-up of oestrogen leading to your period and the significant drop in oestrogen just before menstruation are the main causes of hormonal headaches. Insufficient production of progesterone after ovulation (mid-cycle) up to your period may also contribute to your headache problem.
Although we are at the mercy of our hormones throughout the cycle, it’s interesting to note that our susceptibility to recurring headaches is dependent on our sensitivity to hormonal fluctuations. No matter which time of the monthly cycle your headaches occur, it’s still a symptom of hormonal imbalance which requires treatment. Should this issue remain unaddressed, each cycle will always be a rollercoaster ride for your nervous system.