Risk Factors

What Can Increase the Risk of Period Migraines?

Certain risk factors can increase your chances of experiencing period migraines. These include:

Family history of general acute headache

Women who have a family history of migraines may be genetically prone to having more frequent or severe headaches.

PCOS

May increase the risk of migraines as well, due to hormonal imbalances.

Perimenopause

Headaches usually worsen around the time of menopause due to increased hormone fluctuations.¹

What Can Worsen the Intensity of Period Migraines?

While hormonal fluctuations are the primary reason for having period migraines, certain factors can trigger them, which make the period migraines worse. Some of the triggers could be:

Certain medications

Certain medications like combined hormonal contraception or hormone replacement therapy can worsen migraines. Some women report more frequent attacks after the use of these medicines, especially in the medicine-free week, when estrogen levels drop sharply.¹

Premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency

Premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency and a family history of the same can exacerbate the intensity of period migraines.

What Other Conditions Can Period Migraines Cause?

Although rare, some studies suggest migraines can be a potential risk factor for causing:

• Bell palsy

• Sensorineural hearing loss

• Oculomotor cranial nerve palsies.¹

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Medically reviewed by

Dr Yash Bahuguna

Researched by

Dr Inara Isani

Written by

Dr Diksha Sheoraut

References

1. Moy G, Gupta V. Menstrual-Related Headache. InStatPearls [Internet] 2022 Oct 4. StatPearls Publishing.