Headache Journal

Migraine, Contraception, and Menstrual Cycle

Overview

A woman’s menstrual cycle causes monthly fluctuations in hormone levels that can impact their migraine symptoms. When hormonal contraception involving estrogen is used, more disruptions can occur. In this section, learn about the role of estrogen in migraine, what treatment options to give patients during menstruation at various life stages and the most suitable options for contraception.

Podcasts

Discussing hormones and contraception with migraine patients

Many women with migraine report attacks just before and during their period. Join Dr. Susan Hutchinson and Dr. Catherine Stika as they discuss how to diagnose and treat menstrual migraine.

Frequently asked questions about hormones and migraine

About 60% to 70% of women with migraine experience attacks associated with hormonal changes. Listen to this episode for answers to some common questions about hormones and migraine.

Recent News & Research

Treating Migraine During Pregnancy

It’s important for providers who treat women during their reproductive years to be aware of treatment options that are safe during pregnancy.

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Hot Topics: Oral Contraceptives and Migraine

There is a higher prevalence of migraine among women, compared with men, so it’s important to consider risks as they relate to women’s health issues—namely when prescribing oral contraceptives.

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Migraine and Contraceptives

AHS doctors discuss the contraindication of contraceptives for women with migraine with aura

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Additional Resources

How Do I Discuss Hormones With My Patients?

Contraceptive Options for Women With Migraine

Menstrual Migraine

Treatment for Women With Migraine

Birth Control for Migraine Guide

Use of Oral Contraceptives in Women With Migraine

Menstrual Migraine: New Approaches to Diagnosis and Treatment

Patient Resources

Migraine Through A Woman’s Life

For women, migraine frequency and treatment options can change from puberty to menopause. Learn how fluctuating estrogen levels affect migraine.

Spotlight On: Oral Contraceptives and Migraine

Women living with migraine should speak to their healthcare provider before beginning hormonal birth control

Migraine in Transgender People

Transgender people with migraine face unique obstacles in accessing care and treatment. Learn more about migraine considerations for this population.

What Is Migraine?

What is migraine? Learn about the symptoms, causes and treatments of this disabling neurological condition affecting more than 39 million Americans.

Hysterectomy and Migraine: What to Expect

A hysterectomy may aggravate migraine. Learn how to create a migraine treatment plan before surgery.

Menstrual Migraine Treatment and Prevention

Learn about the three main treatments for menstrual migraine and how to pick the best one for you, including acute and preventive treatment.

Migraine and Women’s Health: Your Questions Answered

Women have unique challenges when it comes to managing migraine. Check out our webinar on migraine and women's health to learn more.

Hormonal and Menstrual Migraine: Symptoms and Treatment

Menstrual migraine and hormonal headache can increase in severity as a woman nears her period. Learn more about how hormones cause migraine here.

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