What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Headache from Estrogen-Withdrawal

What is Estrogen-Withdrawal Headache? (Definition/Background Information)

• Estrogen-Withdrawal Headache is described as a form of headache that occurs from stoppage of exogenous estrogen medications
• This type of a headache falls in a category of headaches that are attributed to substance withdrawal. Such substances may be prescribed medications, unprescribed use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications, or use of nicotine, alcohol, etc.
• Estrogen are sex hormones responsible for the development of the female sex organs and secondary sexual characteristics. It may be prescribed to women (mostly) as part of hormone therapy
• By definition, Estrogen-Withdrawal Headache (or migraine) has to occur within 5 days of stoppage of exogenous estrogen hormone; a daily use of the hormone for a period of 3 months has to be demonstrated. The condition is known to resolve spontaneously within 3 days of ceasing medication use

The criteria for diagnosis of Estrogen-Withdrawal Headache as outlined by the International Headache Society (IHS) is given below:

• Daily use of exogenous estrogen for over 3 months, which has been interrupted
• Headache fulfilling the criteria below
• Evidence of causation demonstrated by both of the following:
  • Headache or migraine has developed within 5 days after the last use of estrogen
  • Headache or migraine has resolved within 3 days of its onset
• Not better accounted for by another ICHD-3 diagnosis

(Source: International Headache Society Classification ICHD-3, London, United Kingdom)