Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can have both positive and negative effects on migraines, depending on the individual and the specific type of HRT used. For women without aura, HRT might help alleviate menstrual migraine symptoms by reducing hormonal fluctuations. However, for those with aura, combination oral contraceptives are generally not recommended due to the increased risk of stroke.
### Key Points:
- For women without aura, HRT can help minimize menstrual migraine symptoms by reducing hormonal fluctuations[1][2][3].
- Combination oral contraceptives can increase the risk of stroke for women with aura, so it is generally not recommended[1][3][5].
- Using the lowest doses of transdermal estrogen necessary to control vasomotor symptoms can minimize the risk of unwanted side effects[2].
- Cyclical progestogens can have an adverse effect on migraines, so continuous progestogens are preferred[2].
- Non-hormonal options for both conditions are limited, but there is evidence of efficacy for escitalopram and venlafaxine[2].
- Lifestyle factors such as diet, hydration, sleep, stress management, and vitamins can also play a significant role in managing migraines[5].
1. Headaches and hormones:
Headaches and hormones: Whats the connection?
Headaches and hormones: Whats the connection?
Headaches are part of life for many people. Understand how hormones can play a role.
2. Migraine, menopause, and HRT:
Migraine, menopause and hormone replacement therapy - PubMed
Migraine, menopause and hormone replacement therapy - PubMed
Perimenopause marks a period of increased migraine prevalence in women and many women also report troublesome vasomotor symptoms. Migraine is affected by fluctuating estrogen levels with evidence to support estrogen withdrawal as a trigger of menst
3. Migraine and HRT:
Migraine and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Migraine and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
In this information leaflet our menopause experts explain how menopause and female hormones impact migraines, and if you can use HRT
4. Considerations for HRT in migraine patients:
Considerations for hormonal therapy in migraine patients: a critical review of current practice
Considerations for hormonal therapy in migraine patients: a critical review of current practice
Migraine, a neurovascular headache disorder, is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Within the multifaceted pathophysiology of migraine, hormonal fluctuations play an evident triggering and exacerbating role, pointing toward the need for identif
5. Expert panel answers questions about migraines and women’s health:
Experts Answer FAQ About Migraine and Womens Health
Experts Answer FAQ About Migraine and Womens Health
Women will go through many changes throughout their lives that can impact migraine. Learn more about how migraine can affect womens health.