Hormonal Migraines – what you need to know
Hormonal migraines typically occur in women and can be triggered by changes in hormone levels during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, menopause or when taking hormone based contraceptives.
What causes a hormonal migraine?
The exact cause of hormonal migraines is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the changes in oestrogen levels that occur during the menstrual cycle. Oestrogen is a hormone that plays a key role in regulating a woman's menstrual cycle and other reproductive functions. When oestrogen levels drop, as they do before menstruation, it can trigger migraines in some women.
Do all women suffer with hormonal migraines?
Some women are more prone to hormonal migraines than others, and there are several factors that can contribute to their occurrence. For example, women who have a family history of migraines are more likely to experience hormonal migraines themselves. Additionally, women who have a history of other hormonal imbalances, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, may also be at a higher risk for developing hormonal migraines.
Oestrogen and its effects
During the menstrual cycle, oestrogen levels rise and fall, with a significant drop in oestrogen levels just before menstruation. This drop in oestrogen is believed to be a common trigger for hormonal migraines, as it can lead to changes in blood flow to the brain and affect the release of certain neurotransmitters that are involved in the development of migraines.
Pregnancy and Menopause
Women who are pregnant or going through menopause may also experience hormonal migraines due to the changes in hormone levels that occur during these periods. The hormonal fluctuations that occur during pregnancy and menopause can lead to changes in blood flow to the brain and affect the release of neurotransmitters that are involved in the development of migraines. For women who are taking hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, hormonal migraines can also be triggered by the changes in hormone levels that occur with these medications.
What treatment is available?
Treatment for hormonal migraines typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, medication, and hormone therapy. Lifestyle changes such as getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress can sometimes help reduce the frequency and severity of hormonal migraines. Medications such as over-the-counter pain relievers, triptans, and anti-nausea medications can also help manage the symptoms of hormonal migraines. In some cases, hormone therapy may be prescribed to help regulate hormone levels and reduce the frequency of migraines.
It is important to work closely with your healthcare provider to find the most effective treatment plan for your individual needs.
This blog is not written by a medical professional and should not be considered to be medical advice nor should replace medical advice from a trained professional. Please seek advice from a medical professional should you be suffering from migraines or any other medical conditions.