The relationship between migraines and contraceptive methods

A migraine is a neurological condition that complicates the lives of many people. Those affected often experience severe headaches that occur in episodes and may be accompanied by various symptoms. Migraine attacks are not just about the pain; individuals often become more sensitive to light and sound, making it difficult to carry out their daily activities. Conditions like migraine often require complex decision-making, especially when it comes to contraception. The relationship between the use of contraceptives and migraine attacks is crucial, as most women who suffer from migraines want to manage their reproductive health safely.

The choice between different types of migraines and medication treatments depends not only on the health status of the affected women but also on the chosen contraceptive method. Migraine, as a condition, can present with or without aura, which also affects the possibilities of using contraceptives. Before making a decision, it is essential for women to be aware of the types of migraines and the effects of contraceptives.

What is migraine and what types exist?

Migraine is an intense headache that occurs in episodes, typically unilateral but not exclusively so. Those affected often experience such severe pain that they would prefer to retreat to a dark, quiet place to alleviate their suffering. The occurrence of migraine headaches is particularly common among women, with about 17% of women suffering from this condition. There are two main types: migraine with aura and migraine without aura.

In the case of migraine with aura, warning signs, known as aura, occur before the headache. These warning symptoms can be associated with various senses, such as flashes of light, dark spots in the visual field, or even numbness in the limbs. The appearance of aura is usually experienced during the period leading up to a migraine attack, and not all migraine sufferers experience such symptoms. Understanding the type of migraine plays a key role in the management of the condition, as the treatment of migraine attacks and decisions related to the use of contraceptives greatly depend on the type of migraine the affected woman suffers from.

Why can the use of combined pills be risky in the case of migraine with aura?

In the case of migraine with aura, the use of combined contraceptives may be riskier, as estrogen-containing pills can increase the risk of thrombosis and stroke. Estrogen promotes blood clotting, which increases the tendency for thrombosis, especially in those who already struggle with migraine attacks. The risk of stroke is also higher among those suffering from migraine with aura, particularly among smokers.

However, this does not mean that women with migraines should automatically avoid the use of contraceptives. In the case of migraine without aura, combined pills can be used safely, as they do not increase the risk of stroke. The most important factor for women with migraines is to consider medical advice, which can help them find the most suitable contraceptive method for them.

What contraceptives are recommended for migraine with aura?

For women suffering from migraine with aura, the most suitable contraceptive option may be progestin-only or gestagen-containing pills. These preparations do not increase the risk of stroke and thrombosis, making them safe to use. The mechanism of action of gestagen-based pills lies in their ability to thin the cervical mucus, prevent sperm entry, and inhibit ovulation.

Although these pills are effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies, their effectiveness is generally lower than that of combined contraceptives. For those over the age of 35, gestagen-containing contraceptives are particularly recommended, as they do not carry an increased risk of thrombosis and stroke. When selecting the appropriate contraceptive, it is always important to consider professional medical advice so that women can safely manage their reproductive health.