Does Migraine Increase Risk Of Pregnancy Complications?

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Did you know that a woman's lifetime risk for migraine is two to three times greater than a man's? That's not it, women are also more likely to experience more frequent and longer-lasting migraine attacks. Additionally, women are more likely to experience migraines with aura, a type of migraine accompanied by sensory disturbances!

Considering migraines are common among women, let's find out whether they have any impact during pregnancy.

Does Migraine Increase The Risk Of Pregnancy Complications?

Migraine can be a serious disorder that can have an impact on a woman's health during pregnancy. Research has shown that women with migraine may be more likely to experience complications during their pregnancy. The most common complications of migraine during pregnancy are pre-term delivery, gestational hypertension, and pre-eclampsia [1].

Risk of pre-term birth

One study looked at the risk of pre-term birth in women with migraine and found that women with migraine were more likely to experience pre-term birth compared to women without migraine. The study also showed that women with migraine were more likely to experience complications with the placenta and to have labour that was longer than expected [2].

Women with pre-pregnancy migraines had a 17% higher risk of pre term delivery, a 28% higher risk of gestational hypertension, and a 40% higher risk of pre-eclampsia as compared to those without pre-pregnancy migraines, according to a recent study.

Risk of miscarriage or foetal death

Other studies have looked at the risk of miscarriage or foetal death in women with migraine. These studies have found that women with migraine may be more likely to experience miscarriage or foetal death compared to women without migraine [3].

Women who have migraines with aura are 51% more likely to develop pre-eclampsia during pregnancy, while those who have migraines without aura are 29% more likely.

Risk of pre-eclampsia

The risk of pre-eclampsia, a dangerous condition that is marked by high blood pressure, may also be increased in women with migraine. Women with migraine may be more likely to experience pre-eclampsia compared to women without migraine.

This is because migraine is associated with an imbalance in the hormones that regulate blood pressure in the body, which can lead to pre-eclampsia. Additionally, migraine has been linked to vascular inflammation, which is a risk factor for pre-eclampsia.

On A Final Note...

Research suggests that women with migraine may be at an increased risk of experiencing pregnancy complications. It is important for women with migraine to discuss their condition with their healthcare provider and to follow the advice of their provider in order to reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.