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Ask An Expert

Progesterone Treatment for Migraines

Suzanne E. Pertsch

Suzanne E. Pertsch, M.D.

Mills-Peninsula Medical Center

Mills-Peninsula Physician HMO Network

Palo Alto Medical Foundation

Question:

Will taking progesterone help prevent a migraine?

Answer:

Taking progesterone alone as a cream or tablet has not been scientifically established as an effective treatment for migraine headaches. Many women experience migraines with their menstrual cycles, especially with ovulation, one to two days before their period and also with perimenopause. This is thought to be related to fluctuations in both estrogen and progesterone levels. Stabilizing both these hormones with birth control pills does help about one third of migraine sufferers but should be discussed with a doctor.

If you have exhausted all established treatments and found no relief, a trial of alternative remedies is sometimes worth considering. Each of us is unique and migraine triggers vary widely from one person to another. Reducing stress, adequate sleep, acupuncture and relaxation techniques can be very helpful in managing your headaches too.

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Back to Migraines and Headaches

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