Combined Hormonal Contraceptive Use in Women with Migraine Syndrome with Aura
Many women who have migraines have used combined hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills, patches or rings with both estrogen and progesterone) for years without problems. Unfortunately a few of those women have had strokes, which have left them partially paralyzed for the rest of their lives. Recent studies have shown that women taking oral contraceptives who have “Migraine with Aura Syndrome” are 14 times more likely to have a stroke.
What is Migraine with Aura Syndrome?
The symptoms of aura represent a decrease in blood flow to specific areas of the brain. The most common (but not the only) migraine syndrome with aura consists of one or more of the following:
-
Numbness and tingling (paresthesias)
-
Weakness or partial paralysis in an extremity (hemiparesis)
-
Slurred speech or inability to speak (dysphasia)
-
Scintillating scotoma. This visual aura begins as a zig-zag line edged by flashing or sparkling light which may gradually spread right or left. Inside the zig-zag shape is an area of darkness or blindness.
The neurologic symptoms that make up aura usually develop gradually over 5-20 minutes and last less than 60 minutes. Headache usually follows immediately after the aura but it may begin during the aura, after an aura-free interval, or it may not occur at all. At least 2 attacks are required to meet the definition of migraine with aura.
But I have used birth control pills, patches or rings without a problem for years!
We understand that many women will be very upset that they can no longer get combined oral contraceptives from Planned Parenthood. We think the risk of you having a stroke is too high. We will work with you to find an alternative method of contraception that works for you. Ask a staff member if you want information about alternative methods of contraception.
What are my choices?
You can use methods of birth control that do not contain estrogen. This includes progesterone only pills (POP) also called “minipills”, birth control shots, an Intrauterine device (IUD), a contraceptive implant or barrier methods (condoms, spermicides, diaphragm, cervical cap). Please ask for information about these methods.
If you choose to, you can see a health care provider outside of Planned Parenthood. We cannot fill prescriptions from providers that do not work in our clinics so you will have to buy your supplies from a pharmacy.
Is this really so important?
Yes! We think it’s really important to protect you from something that could disable you for the rest of your life. Being 14 times more likely to have a stroke is a serious possible side effect from birth control. There are many effective methods that do not have this possible problem for you. We want to help you get a method that protects your health and provides you with good contraception.
|
