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Writer's pictureEartha Armstrong, L.Ac.

The Link Between Progesterone Deficiency and Migraine Headaches: What You Need to Know



Migraines are a debilitating condition that can affect your ability to function, and for many women, they are tied to hormonal imbalances. One of the key players in hormone-related migraines is progesterone. This essential hormone not only helps regulate your menstrual cycle but also plays a critical role in brain and vascular health. When progesterone levels are low, migraines can become more frequent and severe. At Mulberry Acupuncture and Wellness, we often see patients whose migraines improve significantly with hormone regulation, and acupuncture can be a powerful part of that healing process.


Let’s explore how a deficiency in progesterone can lead to migraines and how we can support you in finding relief.


The Connection Between Progesterone and Migraines


1. Hormonal Imbalances and Estrogen Dominance

Progesterone works hand-in-hand with estrogen to keep your hormones in balance. When progesterone levels drop—whether due to stress, perimenopause, or luteal phase issues—estrogen can dominate. This condition, known as estrogen dominance, is a common trigger for migraines.


The menstrual cycle highlights this delicate balance. In the second half of the cycle (the luteal phase), progesterone levels should rise. If they don’t, the fluctuations in estrogen can overstimulate your brain and blood vessels, leading to migraines. Women with menstrual migraines often notice that their headaches coincide with the natural drop in progesterone and estrogen right before their period.


2. Impact on Brain Chemistry

Progesterone is known as a calming hormone because it supports the production of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), the brain’s main "relaxation" neurotransmitter. When progesterone is low, GABA levels decrease, leaving your nervous system more excitable and vulnerable to stress triggers.

In addition, progesterone helps regulate serotonin, a neurotransmitter critical in migraine prevention. When hormonal imbalances disrupt serotonin levels, migraines can become more frequent.


3. Vascular Changes and Migraines

Migraines are partly caused by changes in the blood vessels of the brain. Progesterone helps maintain vascular stability by reducing inflammation and relaxing blood vessels. A deficiency can lead to sudden constriction or dilation of blood vessels, which can set off a migraine.


4. Inflammation and Pain Sensitivity

One of progesterone’s often overlooked benefits is its anti-inflammatory properties. When levels are low, the body becomes more inflamed, which can amplify pain sensitivity. Chronic inflammation increases the likelihood of migraines, especially in women who are already predisposed to them.


5. Life Stages and Hormonal Shifts

  • Menstrual Cycles: Many women notice migraines occur in the days leading up to their period when progesterone and estrogen levels naturally drop. This is particularly common for women with progesterone deficiencies.

  • Perimenopause and Menopause: As women approach menopause, progesterone levels decline significantly. This often leads to an increase in hormone-related migraines.

  • Postpartum Period: The dramatic hormonal changes after childbirth can also trigger migraines, especially if progesterone levels remain low during this time.


How Acupuncture Can Help

At Mulberry Acupuncture and Wellness, we specialize in balancing hormones naturally. Acupuncture has been shown to:

  • Regulate hormone production and improve the balance of progesterone and estrogen.

  • Reduce stress and calm the nervous system by increasing GABA production.

  • Decrease inflammation and improve vascular stability.

  • Relieve pain naturally by stimulating endorphin release.

Additionally, we may recommend herbal medicine and dietary changes to support progesterone production and reduce migraine triggers.


How to Know If Progesterone Deficiency Is a Factor in Your Migraines

If you’re experiencing regular migraines, especially around your period or during hormonal shifts, progesterone deficiency may be a contributing factor. Other signs of low progesterone include:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles

  • Mood swings or anxiety

  • Fatigue or insomnia

  • PMS symptoms like bloating and irritability


We’re Here to Support You

Hormonal migraines can feel overwhelming, but they are treatable. At Mulberry Acupuncture and Wellness, we take a holistic approach to care, focusing on restoring balance to your body. By addressing the root cause of your migraines—whether it’s low progesterone, stress, or other factors—we aim to help you find long-term relief.

If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your migraines, contact us today to schedule an appointment. Together, we’ll create a personalized plan to help you feel your best.


Schedule Your Consultation Learn more about how we can help by visiting our website at Mulberry Acupuncture and Wellness, or call us at 720-340-2773 to book your consultation. We look forward to supporting your journey to wellness!


Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes and is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical conditions and before starting any new health program.


Sources:
  1. WebMD. Hormonal Headaches and Migraines. https://www.webmd.com/migraines-headaches/hormones-headaches
  2. CentreSpring MD. 7 Signs of Low Progesterone. https://centrespringmd.com/7-signs-of-low-progesterone-hormones/
  3. Marcelle Pick, OB/GYN NP. Progesterone Deficiency and Adrenal Fatigue. https://marcellepick.com/progesterone-deficiency-and-adrenal-fatigue/

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