Monday, May 28, 2012
Tuesday, August 18, 2009 KAT asks

Q: Stroke risk for women over 45 on birth control pills who have migraines with aura?

Hi,

 

I recently had my annual pelvic exam with a new doctor and she raised a concern about my OCP use since I get migraines with visual disturbance (flashing zigzag lines).  I am 45 and have been taking birth control pills and getting migraines since I was in my 20s.  Currently I take Jolessa (13-week pill cycle).  I have been researching this subject and understand the risks, however most of the articles I've found refer to women under 35 or under 45.  I know that the risk of stroke and heart attack increases with age in general, but my doctor also said that my estrogen levels were at their highest in my 20s, so even with OCPs now are my estrogen levels likely lower than they were when I was younger?  I'm not asking for medical advice, just trying to understand how my age affects the risk and looking for additional insight.  Thanks!     

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Answers (1)
Teri Robert, Health Guide
8/20/09 4:06pm

Kat,

 

-:¦:-•:*'""*:•.-:¦:-•*Welcome to MyMigraineConnection!*•-:¦:-•:*'""*:•.-:¦:-

 

 

This is something we're all trying to figure out. If you get a solid answer let us know, please! Surprised

 

Seriously, let me give you what information is available at this point:

 

      • Video: Migraine and Stroke Risk

      • Gene Linked to Migraine and Increased Stroke Risk

      • Migraine and Stroke Risk

 

I hope some of this helps,

Teri

 

Reply
8/20/09 10:48pm

Hi Teri,

 

Thanks for the welcome, and thanks for the links.  It's a tough decision, whether to stay on birth control pills, and my doctor also suggested I consider sterilization.  ...Then my next dilemma will be whether to consider HRT after menopause.  Undecided

 

Regards,

KAT

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By KAT— Last Modified: 12/24/10, First Published: 08/18/09