HP-07-003 Sexual Functioning and Menstrual Pattern Migraine: Pilot Study on Effects of Hormonal Interventions during Menopause Transition

Abstract

Hormonal management for menstrual pattern migraines is suggested when headaches are refractory to regular migraine treatments. Attenuating luteal phase estrogen drop prevents menstrual/menstrual related migraines (MM/MRM). Concerns about adverse effects on headaches, weight and sexual function limit acceptance of hormonal interventions. Female migraineurs transitioning through menopause experience worsening of migraines. Improvement of sexual function especially pain has been demonstrated in peri- and early postmenopausal women using estrogen therapy but studies in migraineurs are lacking. To evaluate estrogen therapy effects on sexual functioning and headache in women with MM/MRM transitioning through menopause. Sexual functioning of 28 women with MM/MRM, aged average 49years referred to the gynecologist were assessed using the Dutch Questionnaire for Screening of Sexual Dysfunction (QSSD). Impact of headaches was evaluated by Migraine Disability Assessment (MIDAS), symptoms of depression studied with CES-D (Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression) and Greene Climacteric Scale (GCS) screened menopausal symptoms. Effects of 3 months continuous estrogen therapy were compared with 29 age-matched controls without migraine. Differences stated were statistically significant at p<0.05.