Migraine in Women
Migraine is three times more commonly diagnosed in women than in men. It is most common from puberty onwards until menopause, affecting women significantly at the time of their life when they are working, caring for family members etc. This debilitating condition is a socio-economic issue as well as a public health issue, and there remains many barriers to care.
If you are a woman living with migraine, or have any undiagnosed symptoms or concerns it is important to seek support as soon as possible. Speak with a medical doctor as soon as possible with any concerns about your symptoms, or other health concerns.
Migraine is three times more commonly diagnosed in women than in men. It is most common from puberty onwards until menopause, affecting women significantly at the time of their life when they are working, caring for family members etc. This debilitating condition is a socio-economic issue as well as a public health issue, and there remains many barriers to care.
If you are a woman living with migraine, or have any undiagnosed symptoms or concerns it is important to seek support as soon as possible. Speak with a medical doctor as soon as possible with any concerns about your symptoms, or other health concerns.
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Migraine and Periods
About 60% of women with migraine note an increased number of attacks in association with their menstrual period. This is known as menstrually-related migraine.
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Contraception
Headaches are a common side effect of taking oral contraceptives and in most cases usually improve over time.
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Pregnancy
Migraine is likely to improve during pregnancy. 60% experience improvement, particularly during the second and third trimesters.
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Menopause
For women whose migraine has been closely linked with their menstrual cycle, the elimination of that trigger with the onset of menopause can result in real improvement, although it is rare for attacks to disappear entirely.
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Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding helps keep stable hormone levels after giving birth, and can in this way also help with attacks of migraine.
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Perimenopause
For women whose migraine has been closely linked with their menstrual cycle, the elimination of that trigger with the onset of menopause can result in real improvement, although it is rare for attacks to disappear entirely.