Ep 4. Menstrual Migraine: The hidden hormone link?

In this episode of Heads Up, host Dr Katy Munro, headache specialist at the National Migraine Centre, is joined by Dr Rebecca Walker, a GP with an extended role in headache medicine and menopause care. Together they unpack menstrual migraine and the powerful role of hormones. They explain how migraine often changes at puberty, during pregnancy and through the menopause transition, and why women are three times more likely than men to experience it. Practical takeaways include how to track headaches alongside your cycle, which contraceptive options are safe with and without aura, and when combined pills, progestogen-only methods or coils may help stabilise hormones. They also review treatment options from anti-inflammatories, triptans and newer gepants to anti-sickness tablets, lifestyle measures, supplements and non-drug neuromodulation devices. Additional Links: Dr David Kernick and Exeter Headache Care: https://exeterheadachecare.co.uk/ Dr Aziza Sesay and S6 E4: https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk/understanding-migraine/heads-up-podcast/ Nerivio: https://www.nerivio.co.uk/ Cefaly: https://www.cefaly.com/ Dr Salwa Kamourieh and S2 E10: https://www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk/understanding-migraine/heads-up-podcast/ MyHeadache app: Apple AppStore: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/myheadache/id6746536132 Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.avegenhealth.hm.dhp302.prod&hl=en_GB https://www.headacheaudit.org.uk/migraine-audit NICE: https://www.nice.org.uk/ S5 E4: http://headsup.libsyn.com/exploring-new-anti-cgrp-treatments-for-migraine