Perimenopause and Menopause Are Associated With High Frequency Headache in Women With Migraine: Results of the American Migraine Prevalence and Prevention Study

Abstract

The risk of high frequency headache is increased in women during the perimenopause compared to premenopause in the fully adjusted model. The fact that the increased risk of high frequency headache was not statistically significant for menopause in the fully adjusted models suggests that different mechanisms might account for the increased risk for this stage of the menopausal transition. Recognition of the increased risk of high frequency headache during the menopausal transition suggests a need for optimized preventive treatment of migraine during this time of women's life.

Anti-Müllerian hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, antral follicle count, and risk of menopause within 5 years

“…time to final menstrual period as well as individual factors. Such symptoms also include those associated with the hormone fluctuation characterizing the menopause, such as menstrual migraines, which affect over one in 10 perimenopausal women [27] and may be treated with estrogen therapy. However, estrogen therapy obscures the menstrual cycle, and currently therapy must be punctuated by trials off of medication, which in turn are associated with exacerbation of symptoms.…”

Need for Migraine/Perimenopausal Research

“…It has now been clearly established that in women who suffer from migraines, the migraines often worsen and become more severe during the menopause transition. Menopause occurs during the later stages of reproductive aging leading up to cessation of menstrual cycles. While some women do better with the approach of menopause, some other women who had an occasional episodic migraine may find themselves experiencing increased frequency of migraines .…”

“…Menopause occurs during the later stages of reproductive aging leading up to cessation of menstrual cycles. While some women do better with the approach of menopause, some other women who had an occasional episodic migraine may find themselves experiencing increased frequency of migraines . The migraines can become more severe and painful, with accompanying visual auras, nausea, and vomiting, even if these factors were not previously present …”

Diclofenac potassium for oral solution (CAMBIA®) in the acute management of a migraine attack: clinical evidence and practical experience

“…Migraine attacks can increase in frequency during perimenopause. 34 Propranolol 60 mg increased to 120 mg and magnesium glycinate 400 mg once per day were added for migraine prevention. She preferred not to have a trial of topiramate due to potential side effects.…”