Migraine, Contraception, & 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.

Download our Guide to Discussing Hormones With Patients

Download our Guide to Contraceptive Options for Women With Migraine

Test Your Knowledge

How Do I Discuss Hormones with My Patients with Migraine?

Contraceptive Options for Women with Migraine

News & Articles

Treating Migraine During Pregnancy

How to treat patients for migraine during pregnancy It’s important for providers who treat womenRead More

Hot Topics: Oral Contraceptives and Migraine

Who is most at risk for stroke? There is a higher prevalence of migraine amongRead More

Migraine and Contraceptives

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

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.

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.Read More

Spotlight On: Oral Contraceptives and Migraine

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

Migraine in Transgender People

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

What Is Migraine?

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

Hysterectomy and Migraine: What to Expect

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

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.Read More

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.Read 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.Read More

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Migraine, Pregnancy, & Lactation