Migraine; Menstruation, Pregnancy and Lactation

Migraine is very common in women of reproductive age with peak prevalence occurring during child-bearing years. Hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle, menarche, and menopause as well as during treatment with hormonal contraceptive therapy can have a profound effect on migraine. Although migraine tends to improve during pregnancy, many women still need pharmacological treatment with acute or preventive therapy. The fetal safety of medication when used during pregnancy may be different than its safety in the infant during lactation. Women with migraine are at an increased risk of certain hypertensive disorders such as preeclampsia and stroke.