Is Progesterone Linked to Migraines?

Progesterone is a hormone released during menstruation that prepares a woman's uterus for a potential embryo. If the egg does not become fertilized, progesterone levels drop, leading to hormonal fluctuations that may cause migraines.

• Low progesterone levels may provoke migraines.

Significance

• Estrogen and progesterone differ in the way they prepare a woman's body. Estrogen causes cells to multiply and store fat, leading to weight gain, bloating, tension, mood changes, nausea and headaches.

Function

• Progesterone counteracts estrogen, reducing swelling and enhancing mood, meaning that low levels of progesterone may result in a migraine due to increased estrogen triggers.

Identification

• Menstrual migraines occur before, during and after menstruation, with symptoms of aura (light or heat sensations) and nausea often preceding the migraine. Menstrual migraines are caused by sharp changes in estrogen and progesterone levels.

Effects

• Hormones induce sensations of pain, affecting the endocrine and nervous systems. Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels cause serotonin levels to decrease, leading to swollen and dilated blood vessels leading to the brain, resulting in migraines.

Prevention/Solution

• Migraines can be treated through hormone therapy, beta blockers and antidepressants to reduce the onset of symptoms, whereas pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications may relieve symptoms.