Menstrual migraine (on contraceptive pill). Please help!

Mandy

Thanks so much for the replies, they are both very helpful. I have heard about taking the pill continuously for three months at a time, so I may enquire about this.

The ironic thing is really that I originally went on the pill for horrific period pains, I mean, I think they were worse than the migraines. Ideally, I would love to come off the pill, but 1, I honestly think I could bare the migraines more than the period pains, and 2, I'm 22 years old and I really don't want to risk getting pregnant at all (I use condoms as well as it is).

But I am definately going to talk to my doctor asap.

On my research on this topic on the internet, I came across another 'combined hormone contraceptive' called the 'nuvo ring' or something like that. Apparently its meant to be better for migraines sufferers as it releases a steady amount of hormones rather than a 'high and a low' which a pill gives you. Only thing is is that I'm not sure if it is available in the UK yet (where I live).

But does anyone happen to know anything about this treatment?

Thanks again for your replies!

My doctor informed me of exactly what i found the other day which might help.

** Migraineurs are 2.2 times greater risk for stroke than the non-migraine population. That risk goes up to a staggering 8 times more stroke risk for women Migraineurs on the pill **

I suffer from migraines around once a week and would only take mini-pill as a safer choice..so far, so good..but its only early days!  i definately would have a chat to your doctor about this tho!!

Welcome to the Migraine/Headache forum.  You have a kind of tricky problem.  Changes in hormone levels are one of the most frequent triggers for migraines, but when this trigger happens can be before, during, or after your period.  Basically, it is just one of those things you have to accept as a female.

I've never heard that Migraine with Aura(classic migraine) is any more dangerous than without(common migraine).  They are pretty equal with standard symptoms, once you get past the aura stage.

The thing that actually concerns me the most is that you have been on birth control so long.  No female should be on the pill(any variety) for more than 4 to 5 years, especially if you haven't had children yet.  You should discuss this with your gynocologist as soon as possible.  From what experience I've had with different OB/GYNs, they have all have recommended taking a break every so often, and let your body naturally for a while.  Apparently, controlling your cycle artificially for a longer time can make it much more difficult to get pregnant, once you are ready to make that step.  It also make you more susceptible for blood clots, which can kill you, or at least give you a stroke.

I would really suggest getting off the controlled hormones for a while (there are other methods of birth control if you need that).  You will still be affected by your hormones, which will still probably trigger a migraine, but if you have an abortive migraine medication, that should take care of it whenever it occurs.

Best of luck and let us know how you are doing.

Leigh Ann

                                             - Jimmy Buffett