If you're currently trying for a baby, you've probably already consulted an ovulation calculator or used a specialised app to work out when exactly you're ovulating. But did you know that there are also many physical side effects of this part of your menstrual cycle that can help identify when to try for a baby? These include cramps, tender breasts and ovulation headaches.
We spoke to Dr Shazia Malik, Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician at The Portland Hospital (part of HCA Healthcare UK), to find out more.
What is an ovulation headache?
An ovulation headache tends to be different from other types of headaches and the pain is more closely comparable to a migraine or tension headache.
However, this will vary from person to person and some women may regularly experience headaches during ovulation, whereas others may never experience headaches around this time in the menstrual cycle. That's why it's wise to be aware of other ovulation symptoms as well as headaches.
What causes ovulation headaches?
Ovulation headaches are caused by fluctuating hormones. When the body ovulates, oestrogen increases and the luteinizing hormone surges, indicating the release of the egg from the ovary. For many women, this drastic increase and then decrease in oestrogen can trigger headaches and migraines. It can also cause side effects such as ovulation bloating and cervical mucus.
How long can ovulation headaches last?
They can last anywhere between a few hours to a few days. Typically, the headache will go within three days but return during the oestrogen-free week of the next cycle.
Symptoms of ovulation headaches
Ovulation headaches don’t tend to have distinctive symptoms as other triggered headaches do. However, some ovulation-related symptoms may include:
• Sensitivity to bright light and blurred vision
• A throbbing sensation in either one side or both sides of the head/temples
• Sensitivity to sound
• Nausea or vomiting
What's the best way to treat an ovulation headache?
When experiencing ovulation headaches, medical advice is to try using over-the-counter medications before exploring prescriptive alternatives. You should try:
• Over the counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
• Consuming plenty of water to ensure your body is fully hydrated
• A warm or cool compress against your head or over the eyes
• Applying diluted peppermint oil to the affected area
If none of these home remedies are working, your GP may suggest a prescription medication such as almotriptan (a triptan medication used to treat migraines).
If your ovulation headaches are impacting your day-to-day life, they are particularly severe, or if they are unusual for you, please speak to your GP for advice.
Can an ovulation headache be prevented?
An effective way for some individuals to prevent ovulation headaches is to manage hormone levels with medication, the most common form being birth control pills. This is effective for some people, especially those who experience severe headaches each month, but everyone is different and what works for some people might not work for others.
Understandably, you may wish to steer clear of birth control pills if you are trying to get pregnant. It’s always best to speak to your GP or a medical expert for personalised advice.
Other preventative treatments prescribed include:
• Anticonvulsants – Sodium Valproate and Topiramate
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) - Venlafaxine
• Beta-blockers – Atenolol or Propranolol