Migraines and Perimenopause

Andrea L. Sikon, MD, FACP, NCMP

Question: What are the current recommendations for assessing and managing migraines in the perimenopausal woman? What are the latest theories of migraine management in general?

Commentary from Andrea L. Sikon, MD, FACP, NCMP

Pathophysiology
Migraines are more common in women than men and a source of great disability, with considerable resultant financial burden as well. Migraines often begin in the mid-third decade with peak prevalence in middle life.[1] Menstruation is one of the most significant triggers of migraines, as estrogen has numerous central effects.[2] Perimenopause can be a time of migraine exacerbations, likely due in part to hormonal fluctuation. Natural menopause often diminishes migraine without aura by approximately half, but does not necessarily diminish migraines with aura.[2,3]


http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/755254

My migraines began in peri menopause. They have continued despite being post menopausal for several years now. (I do not get visual auras). I thought menopause would end my migraines - that's the popular wisdom. But it has not. I've searched the Internet for a reason but have found one. Does anyone know why?

t can do but I was told mine wouldn't stop after menopause as they tend not to be hormonally linked with me.

I think 'usually' (if there is any usual with us guys) if you have worse attacks before your period then yes you could see a good improvement.

But one size doesn't fit all and not all migs are related to your hormones..so you never really know until it does or doesn't happen.

Jane
xx