There is a clear link between menopause and migraines, mainly due to the changes and fluctuations in hormone levels, especially estrogen. Many women experience migraines more frequently or intensely during perimenopause—the transitional period before menopause—because estrogen levels swing unpredictably. These hormonal ups and downs can trigger migraine attacks or make existing migraines worse.
Estrogen plays a key role in regulating serotonin, a brain chemical involved in migraine. When estrogen drops, such as just before menstruation or during perimenopause, serotonin levels also fall, increasing the chance of migraines. After menopause, when estrogen levels stabilize at a low level, some women find their migraines lessen, but others may continue to have them because migraine is also influenced by genetic and neurological factors beyond hormones.
Progesterone, another female hormone, helps balance estrogen, and its decline can also contribute to headaches and migraines. Stress hormones like cortisol and other factors such as sleep, dehydration, and lifestyle can further affect migraine frequency and severity during this time.
Testosterone, which is present in smaller amounts in women, may have a protective effect against migraines, so hormonal imbalances involving testosterone might also play a role.
Overall, menopause can be a challenging time for migraine sufferers because of these hormonal shifts. While some women see improvement after menopause, others continue to experience migraines and may need to manage them with lifestyle changes or medical treatments tailored to their hormonal status. Understanding the hormone-migraine connection can help women better navigate their symptoms during this phase of life.
