

Migraine with aura (complicated migraine).Migraine without aura (common migraine).Not all migraines are the same, and they largely fall into two main categories: The other factor complicating matters is that migraines differ, so the kind you have determines how you respond to birth control. "But now, we have lower-dose estrogen formulation along with non-estrogen options," Rao adds. It was not until 1996 that the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that a higher risk of stroke was associated with combined oral contraceptives containing higher doses of estrogen. In 1975, the risk of stroke with combined oral contraceptives was first reported in JAMA. "In the 1960s and '70s when birth control was just coming out, they contained higher doses of estrogen," Rao says. But controlling estrogen levels can be tricky because of how birth control is formulated and which type of migraine you have. This type of birth control comes in various forms:Ĭombined oral contraceptives have both estrogen and progesterone (a hormone that helps support and maintain pregnancy by thickening the wall of the uterus). In some cases, hormonal contraceptives can help manage migraines - and even prevent them - since they help regulate estrogen levels. "It’s usually that drop in estrogen that will trigger a menstrual migraine," Rao explains. Then right before the menstrual cycle begins, estrogen levels drop.

Usually around the time of ovulation, when eggs are released from the ovaries, women have a big surge in estrogen. Shifts in hormones occur throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle. Generally, migraines are launched by triggers, such as environmental factors, dietary components and hormonal changes. 6 percent) experience them largely due to hormonal changes. They can run in families, and more women than men (18 percent vs. population - including children, according to the Migraine Research Foundation. Malathi Rao, DO, a neurologist at Rush South Loop, explains why birth control can potentially be risky for migraines and how you can decide which treatment option will work best for you. The catch? Using certain types of oral contraceptives to treat migraines can also put certain women at greater risk for stroke. Hormone changes can cause migraines, and hormonal contraceptives can help regulate these changes and reduce migraines. But one form of migraine treatment that can be particularly problematic for some women is birth control. Other symptoms can include nausea vomiting and sensitivity to light, sound and smell.Īnother potential hurdle to relieving migraines: the myriad treatment options - including Botox, implantable nerve stimulators, surgical nerve decompression, medications, supplements, herbs and acupuncture - and their potential side effects.

In fact, a headache is actually a symptom of migraines. One reason is that these are more than just headaches. For women who suffer from migraines, finding relief can be challenging.
