''Menstrual'' migraine: Towards a definition

''Menstrual'' migraine, a term misused by both patients and doctors, lacks precise definition. This dissertation critically reviews papers on the subject and examines the problem from a clinical perspective. A definition is proposed that the term ''menstrual'' migraine should be restricted to attacks exclusively starting on or between day 1 +/- 2 days of the menstrual cycle; the woman should be free from attacks at all other times of the cycle. This definition, unlike many used previously, links to a specific mechanism; the timing is consistent with oestrogen withdrawal. If this is correct, ''oestrogen withdrawal'' migraine may be a better term. Future studies, necessary to support or refute these proposals, are suggested.