Can I use HRT if I have migraine?
Women who suffer from migraine with aura should avoid using the combined contraceptive pill and only use Progestogen only methods or non hormonal contraception. This is because the Estrogen in the pill increases your risk of stroke if you suffer from migraine with aura.
A very common question is “can I use HRT if I have migraine with aura?”
The short answer is yes! Why is it different for HRT?
HRT uses natural Estrogen so women with migraine can take any form of HRT.
During the years leading up to the menopause, migraine tends to worsen- becoming more frequent and lasting longer. After the menopause, migraine tends to improve but it can take a while to settle- up to 3 years for some women. It is more likely to occur when you have problematic flushes and sweats.
HRT is very effective at controlling these symptoms and therefore reducing the likelihood of migraine.
It is generally recommended to take the estrogen part of the HRT transdermally ( patch, gel or spray) as it provides more stable hormone levels compared to the tablet form of HRT. For the Progestogen part of the HRT it is better to use it continuously rather than cyclically- so an IUS, micronised Progesterone or in a combined transdermal patch.
It can take 3 months to see the full benefit- it might be helpful to keep a symptom diary.
The non hormonal triggers for migraine will still be present so good migraine management is still essential- a good sleep routine, regular meals and exercise.
There is a lot of useful information on migrainetrust.org, nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk, and womens-health-concern.org