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Updated: Jun 9, 2026
10:39
3D-Neuronavigation In Vivo Through a Patient's Brain During a Spontaneous Migraine Headache
Published on: June 2, 2014
Migraine and reproductive life
Rossella E Nappi1, Sarah L Berga
1Research Center of Reproductive Medicine and Unit of Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, IRCCS Maugeri Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy. renappi@tin.it
Handbook of Clinical Neurology
|September 7, 2010
Summary
Migraine in women is linked to reproductive stages and hormone use. Estrogen fluctuations, especially withdrawal, can trigger severe menstrual migraines, sometimes with aura, necessitating individualized treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Migraine is common in women of reproductive age.
- Reproductive events (menarche, pregnancy, menopause) and hormonal fluctuations influence migraine patterns.
- Menstrual migraine can be more severe and treatment-resistant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the intricate relationship between hormonal changes and migraine in women.
- To highlight the significance of menstrual cycle tracking in migraine management.
- To provide insights into managing hormone-related migraine, including aura.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of neuroendocrine events and menstrual cyclicity.
- Review of the impact of exogenous sex hormones (contraception, HRT).
- Emphasis on headache diary use for pattern identification.
Main Results:
- Estrogen variations modulate neuronal excitability and pain sensitivity throughout the menstrual cycle.
- Estrogen withdrawal is a key trigger for menstrual migraine and post-hormonal therapy headaches.
- Exogenous estrogen can contribute to migraine with aura; hormonal treatment should be stopped if aura occurs.
Conclusions:
- Hormonal fluctuations significantly impact migraine presentation and severity in women.
- Tailored strategies, including headache diaries, are crucial for managing menstrual migraine.
- Discontinuation of hormonal treatment is advised when migraine with aura is present.
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