Women's Health Community
Migraine and birth control pill
About This Community:

This patient support community is for discussions relating to women's health issues, including bone health, gynecologic cancers, genetic testing, heart disease, infectious diseases, work issues, mammograms, reproductive health, sexuality, domestic abuse and sexual violence.

Font Size:
A
A
A
Background:
Blank
Blank
Blank
Blank Blank

Migraine and birth control pill

My question is about migraine sufferers taking oral contraceptives. I have had migraines since I was 12 but they have been much worse since being on the pill. I read that women who have migraines with Focal Neurologic Symptoms (visual disturbances before a migraine) should not take any oral contraceptive due to the risk of stroke, that the benefit does not outweigh the risk. I have always had problems with my vision before a migraine starts, I'll see squiggly lines and can't focus and once lost vision completely for about 5 minutes before a migraine. I am considering going off of the pill entirely. I have also possibly had blood clots in my legs in the past from the pill - my dr made me switch brands immediately when I started having symptoms. That makes me especially nervous to continue taking it. Am I overreacting or should I stop taking the pill? Please help! Thanks
Related Discussions
4 Comments Post a Comment
Blank
Avatar_f_tn
If it were me, I would stop the pill. There is no sense to take that risk. Good luck!
Blank
176437_tn?1326305702
I would stop taking the pill, you are putting yourself at risk. Good luck : )

~niki~
Blank
158812_tn?1189759426
I just saw a nerologist this week concerning complex migraines w/aura (light spots).  He told me that since I have experienced these, I should never take the birth control pill.  You need to get off this pill.  Call your ob/gyn, and inform them of your situation.  
Blank
Avatar_f_tn
I am on the paragard iud (copper without hormones) because of migraines. There are some studies that migraines are caused by spasms in the vessels of the brain and due to small blood clots. Bcp's can cause blood clots as well. I'd definitely consider another type of bc. Good luck to you.
Blank
Post a Comment
To
Go
MedHelp Health Answers
Blank
Menstrual Cycle Tracker
Track your cycle
Start Tracking Now
Blank
Mood Tracker
See what affects your mood
Start Tracking Now
Blank
My Cycles
Track your cycle & ovulation
Download Now
Top Women's Health Answerers
973741_tn?1342346373
Blank
specialmom
1268057_tn?1357999037
Blank
Londres70
France
Avatar_f_tn
Blank
evewisewoman
Toronto
136956_tn?1363091289
Blank
ticked
Mississauga, ON
13167_tn?1327197724
Blank
RockRose
Austin, TX
5108300_tn?1363719096
Blank
mz_officer4053
oklahoma city, OK
RSS Expert Activity
1741471_tn?1349564002
Blank
Parkinson Awareness Month: Parkinso... Blank
May 10 by Michael Gonzalez-WallaceBlank
233488_tn?1310696703
Blank
NEW STUDIES ON PREVENTING PROGRESSI...
May 08 by John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAOBlank
2126606_tn?1346348724
Blank
Heroin Use in the U.S.
May 08 by Clare Waismann Kavin, Blank