What's really happening
Fluctuating estrogen levels can narrow blood vessels in the brain and alter pain sensitivity, triggering more frequent or intense headaches. For many, they’re cyclical—arriving around their period or after ovulation—and often worsen during perimenopause when hormone swings are more erratic.
But why?
Estrogen impacts blood vessel dilation and neurotransmitters like serotonin. Rapid drops in estrogen = higher headache sensitivity.
Scientific Breakdown
Estrogen stabilizes the dilation of blood vessels in the brain and modulates neurotransmitters involved in pain perception. When estrogen levels drop sharply—like before a period or during perimenopause—brain chemistry changes, and the risk of migraine spikes. For some, fluctuating estrogen creates a “migraine-prone” state. Post-menopause, migraines often improve as hormones stabilize.
• Estrogen withdrawal → vasoconstriction → migraine
• Progesterone decline = less calming, stabilizing effect
• Estrogen interacts with serotonin, GABA, and glutamate, which regulate pain
Essentially…
Hormones influence your pain sensitivity, inflammation, and brain signaling. When they’re out of whack, your head feels it.
🔗 [Deep Dive: Hormones + Migraine Pathways → coming soon]
See a doctor if …
• New or changing migraine pattern
• Sudden, severe “worst headache ever”
• Accompanied by vision changes, numbness, or speech difficulty
• High blood pressure
• Stroke warning signs
• Cluster headaches or sinus infections
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about
Headaches / Migraines
Q: Can HT make migraines worse?
It depends. For some women, inconsistent hormone levels trigger migraines—so low-dose, steady HT can actually help.
Q: Are there safe meds to stop migraines fast?
Yes—like triptans or NSAIDs. Some women also use CGRP inhibitors preventatively.
Q: What supplements help?
Magnesium, riboflavin (B2), CoQ10, and vitamin D have evidence behind them.
“I thought I had to white-knuckle it through every migraine. But once I started on transdermal estrogen and upped my magnesium, my cycle migraines basically vanished.”
— FLUXX community member, age 45
FLUXX Recommendations
1. Track migraines alongside your cycle or hormone symptoms
2. Explore low-dose HT or hormonal stabilization
3. Support nervous system regulation (stress, sleep, hydration)
Non-Hormonal Medications
• Triptans (for acute migraines)
• Preventatives: beta-blockers, anti-seizure meds, CGRP inhibitors
• NSAIDs for tension or hormone-related headaches
• Magnesium glycinate or citrate (shown to reduce migraine frequency)
• Riboflavin (vitamin B2), CoQ10
• Acupuncture and craniosacral therapy
• Peppermint oil or cold compresses for acute relief
Lifestyle Suggestions
• Hydration, regular meals, and sleep routine
• Reducing triggers: alcohol, caffeine, skipped meals, stress
• Gentle yoga or breathwork during prodrome phase
Myth-Busting
HT is not off-limits for migraine sufferers—but delivery method and dosage matter.
Modern Guidance
Track your headache patterns and triggers. HT may help if symptoms are hormonal, especially with transdermal estrogen. Triptans, magnesium, and lifestyle strategies (like hydration and sleep) also play a role.
Ask yourself
• “Are my headaches tied to my cycle?”
• “Do I have aura, or just pain?”
• “Would stabilizing my hormones help?”
Ask your doctor
• “Are my migraines hormonal?”
• “Would transdermal estrogen be safer for me?”
• “Can I try magnesium or riboflavin?”
Some types of migraine (especially with aura) carry a higher stroke risk, particularly with oral estrogen or smoking.
