For those who have not experienced a migraine, perhaps it would seem just another headache. But for someone like me who has suffered through migraines that will last over a week even with medication, I can definitely tell you that it's much more. The ache is not confined to the head; it's the whole experience. Nausea, sensitivity to light, and throbs so bad it makes simple tasks unbearable. It also comes with an emotional burden—the loneliness and frustration are pretty unbearable. Through the years, realizing how hormones are also implicated in triggering and exacerbating my migraines has helped change the game in my dealing with these episodes.

What are Hormonal Migraines?

Hormonal migraines are caused by fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, the two main female hormones. These hormones are essential for the reproductive system, regulating menstrual cycles and pregnancy. They also have an effect on brain chemicals, such as serotonin and dopamine, which affect mood and pain perception. When hormone levels fluctuate, such as during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, they can destabilize the pathways in the brain, causing migraines.

According to Dr. Shivananda Pai, Consultant Neurology, migraines are more than a neurological disorder. "Migraines represent a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors. In women, hormonal fluctuations are a critical trigger that amplifies sensitivity to pain," he explains. Hormonal headaches are particularly challenging because they are influenced by multiple life stages, from puberty to post-menopause. Common causes include:

• Menstrual periods: Estrogen levels significantly drop just before menstruation often triggers a migraine.
• Pregnancy: Hormones can act to relieve symptoms or aggravate them during different times of pregnancy.
• Menopause: The hormonal fluctuation during menopause can intensify a migraine, while some women tend to find relief.
• Hormonal therapies: Birth control and HRT tend to level off hormone balances in some individuals but will exacerbate a migraine in others.

Complex Role of Hormones in Women’s Neurological Health

Estrogen and Neurological Health

Estrogen, often called the "hormone of femininity", does more than regulate reproductive functions. It is a powerful influencer of brain health. Estrogen modulates the activity of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulates mood and pain perception, and dopamine, associated with reward and pleasure.

During stages of hormonal stability, like in pregnancy's latter months, women may have fewer migraines because of the steady elevation of estrogen. However, a sudden downfall in estrogen destabilizes these chemicals in the brain, sending a heightened sensitivity for migraine triggers.

Menstrual Migraines

The most common form of hormonal migraines is menstrual migraines, which occur in response to the steep decline in estrogen levels just before menstruation. These are typically more intense and less responsive to standard treatment. The timing of these migraines provides clear evidence of the role hormones play in neurological health.

Pregnancy and Hormonal Shifts

Pregnancy is a rollercoaster of hormones. Although many women experience relief from migraines as a result of the constantly elevated levels of estrogen, some women, particularly in the first trimester, worsen. This individual variability is a characteristic of hormonal migraine triggers.

Hormonal Therapies and Management of Migraine

Hormonal treatments, such as oral contraceptives and HRT, have had mixed reviews regarding their use in managing migraine. Some women fare better with the stabilization the treatment provides, whereas others suffer worsening symptoms. This will depend on the nature and dose of the hormones used.

Post-Menopause: Migraine Remission or Continued Struggles?

For most women, menopause brings relief from their migraines. The decline in frequency and severity often accompanies stability in hormone levels. Even so, the susceptibility remains with some towards other forms of triggers including stress and sleep deprivation, not to forget diet-related factors and continues the saga of migraines well after the menopausal stages.

Effect on Neurological Health Due to Hormonal Changes

The relationship of hormones to neurological health goes beyond migraines. Hormonal changes have profound effects on a woman's brain in general.

Mood Disorders: Estrogen helps stabilize mood by regulating serotonin. Its decline at menopause increases the risk of mood swings and depression.

Neurodegenerative Diseases: Estrogen is neuroprotective, stimulating the growth and repair of brain cells. Its absence in post-menopausal women has been associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Hormonal cycles may affect the course of MS, a disease that occurs more frequently in women than in men. Estrogen's anti-inflammatory effects provide transient protection during pregnancy, reducing relapse rates in women with MS.

"The intricate interplay between hormones and neurological health underscores the need for gender-specific treatment approaches," says Dr. Pai.

Managing Hormonal Migraines: Practical Strategies

While hormonal changes are inevitable, several strategies can help manage migraines effectively:

1. Tracking Your Cycle

Understanding your menstrual cycle can help identify patterns and predict when migraines might occur. This knowledge allows for preventive measures, such as scheduling medications or adjusting lifestyle habits.

2. Consulting Specialists

Working with a neurologist or gynecologist can help develop a personalized treatment plan. Options might include hormonal therapies, triptans, or preventive medications tailored to your specific needs.

3. Adopting a Healthy Lifestyle

A well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management are all integral parts of managing migraines. For instance, magnesium-rich foods and hydration can help reduce the frequency and severity of attacks.

4. Exploring Preventive Therapies

For people with severe or frequent migraines, preventive medications, such as beta-blockers or CGRP inhibitors, may be prescribed. These medications stabilize brain activity and therefore reduce the chances of migraine during hormonal fluctuations.

5. Mind-Body Techniques

Techniques like yoga, meditation, and biofeedback can enhance wellness and reduce the debilitating effects of stress-one of the most common migraine triggers.

Research that was once in its embryonic stage continues to shed more light on the role of hormones in migraines and other neurological conditions. Further breakthroughs in genetic testing might enable doctors to predict, at least in a way, how an individual would react to hormonal therapies. The importance of gender-specific approaches is gradually being realized, which involves differentiating between the plight of women with migraines from others.

As Dr. Pai puts it, "Empowering women with knowledge about the hormonal underpinnings of migraines can lead to better, more personalized care. With the right strategies, migraines can be effectively managed, allowing women to lead fuller, healthier lives.

Migraines are not headaches; they are a complex neurological condition that deeply impacts the lives of millions of women. Understanding the role of hormones in triggering and exacerbating migraines is a vital step toward better management and relief.

Awareness, proactive care, and advances in medical research can help women regain their lives from the grip of hormonal migraines. Whether tracking cycles, adopting healthier habits, or seeking tailored medical care, every step taken toward understanding and managing migraines is a step toward empowerment.

Dr Shivananda Pai is a Consultant Neurology at KMC Hospital Dr B R Ambedkar Circle in Mangalore, India.

Brandes JL. The Influence of Estrogen on Migraine: A Systematic Review. JAMA. 2006;295(15):1824–1830. doi:10.1001/jama.295.15.1824

Sacco S, Ricci S, Degan D, Carolei A. Migraine in women: the role of hormones and their impact on vascular diseases. J Headache Pain. 2012 Apr;13(3):177-89. doi: 10.1007/s10194-012-0424-y. Epub 2012 Feb 26. PMID: 22367631; PMCID: PMC3311830.

Adenomyosis is a condition that can affect younger women too. It is not limited to women in their 30s or 40s, although it becomes more common with age. Pooja, a 39-year-old pilot, noticed her periods becoming heavier and more painful. Increasing bleeding left her exhausted, while pelvic pain began interfering with daily life. Further evaluation and imaging revealed adenomyosis. Treatment helped bring her bleeding and pain under better control.

Symptoms such as heavy periods, painful cramps and pelvic discomfort may be caused by adenomyosis, a benign condition in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows into the muscular wall of the uterus. It is sometimes mistaken for endometriosis because the symptoms can be similar. However, the two conditions are different, although they can occur together.

Adenomyosis can occur across different age groups. Nearly 1 in 10 women with subfertility may have isolated adenomyosis, while pooled studies suggest it may be found in almost 1 in 2 women presenting with pelvic pain.

It can also affect women who are not planning pregnancy. A woman in her 40s or 50s may notice increasingly heavy periods, severe cramps or pelvic pressure that begins interfering with work and daily life. Even after years of having periods without major problems, a sudden change in bleeding or pain should not simply be dismissed as ageing.

What Exactly Is Adenomyosis?

The uterus has an inner lining called the endometrium and a muscular layer called the myometrium. Normally, these layers remain separate. In adenomyosis, tissue similar to the endometrium is found within the muscular wall.

This tissue responds to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle, contributing to inflammation and thickening of the uterine muscle. The uterus may become enlarged and tender, and periods may become heavier or more painful.

Adenomyosis vs Endometriosis: What’s the Difference?

The main difference between the two conditions is where the tissue grows. In adenomyosis, tissue similar to the uterine lining grows into the muscle wall of the uterus. In endometriosis, similar tissue grows outside the uterus, commonly around the ovaries, pelvic lining and other pelvic organs.

Adenomyosis is more commonly associated with heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, severe cramps and pelvic pressure. Endometriosis may more commonly cause pelvic pain, painful periods, pain during sex, or pain during bowel movements or urination, particularly around periods.

However, symptoms can overlap, and both conditions can affect fertility. Therefore, symptoms alone cannot reliably distinguish between them.

What Are the Symptoms?

Some women with adenomyosis have no symptoms, while others experience problems that affect their work and daily activities.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding
• Severe period cramps
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Pelvic tenderness
• Pain during intercourse
• Fatigue associated with heavy bleeding

Heavy bleeding can eventually cause iron-deficiency anaemia, resulting in tiredness, weakness and reduced energy. Adenomyosis may also be identified during an evaluation for difficulty conceiving.

Who May Be At Risk?

Adenomyosis is more commonly diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s. Previous childbirth, caesarean section and certain uterine surgeries or procedures may be associated with a higher likelihood.

However, these are not requirements, and adenomyosis can occur without them. Age or medical history alone should not be used to rule it out.

Preety, a 32-year-old housewife, was being evaluated for difficulty conceiving. During her fertility assessment, imaging suggested adenomyosis. Her doctors considered her symptoms and reproductive goals while planning treatment.

Her case highlights an important point: adenomyosis does not look the same in every woman, and treatment cannot follow a one-size-fits-all approach.

How Is Adenomyosis Diagnosed and Treated?

Diagnosis usually begins with a detailed discussion about symptoms and medical history, followed by a gynaecological examination where appropriate.

Ultrasound is commonly used as the first imaging investigation, while MRI may be recommended for a more detailed assessment.

Treatment depends on individual needs. There is no single treatment suitable for every woman with adenomyosis. Doctors consider symptom severity, age, overall health, response to previous treatments and, importantly, whether she wants to become pregnant now or in the future.

Management may include medicines to control pain or bleeding, hormonal treatments and, in selected cases, procedures or surgery. Hormonal IUDs may also be considered for women who are not currently planning pregnancy. In severe cases, hysterectomy may be considered when future pregnancy is not desired.

Women planning pregnancy may require a different approach from those who have completed their family.

The goal is to control symptoms, protect quality of life and address reproductive goals.

Don’t Normalise Debilitating Periods

A major challenge with adenomyosis is that its symptoms can be normalised. A woman may spend years believing that extremely heavy bleeding or debilitating cramps are simply part of having periods. They should not automatically be ignored.

If periods become significantly heavier, pain worsens, bleeding causes fatigue or anaemia, or pelvic pain interferes with daily life or fertility plans, a consultation with a gynaecologist can help identify the underlying cause.

Adenomyosis is benign, but living with its symptoms does not have to be accepted as normal. Recognising the signs, getting evaluated and choosing treatment based on individual needs can help women regain control of their reproductive health and quality of life.

(By Dr Kanchi Khurana, Associate Director – Department of Fertility at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chandigarh)

Breast cancer in men is far less common than in women. So there are a lot of factors that drive delay in breast cancer diagnosis in men. A breast lump in a man is dismissed as a fatty deposit, a hormonal change or something that happens only to women. However, men have breast tissue too, so overlooking warning signs can delay diagnosis.

On Breast Cancer Awareness Day, four experts spoke to HealthandMe about the breast changes men should watch for, why the disease is detected late, how to identify suspicious lumps from benign breast enlargement, and which men face a higher risk.

Besides misinformation and misconception, Dr Deepak Jha, Chief, Surgical Oncology and Breast Surgery, Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, pointed towards an important societal factor that can delay breast cancer diagnosis in men.

Dr. Jha said, “Embarrassment and fear of judgment can also put men off seeking medical advice.”

Breast Cancer Awareness Day: Breast Changes Should Men Never Ignore

A lump is not the only warning sign of breast cancer in men. Changes in the nipple, surrounding skin and underarm area may also warrant medical evaluation.

Dr Ankur Bahl, Principal Director, Medical Oncology, Fortis Cancer Institute, Defence Colony, explains that breast cancer can sometimes present with changes in the nipple or surrounding skin without an obvious lump.

“Men should watch for changes such as nipple inversion, unusual discharge, particularly blood-stained discharge, persistent redness, skin dimpling, ulceration or changes in the shape of the breast. Swelling in the underarm area may also warrant evaluation,” he told us.

Dr Jha, highlights thickening in the breast, even when there is no distinct lump, which is an overlooked sign of breast cancer.

“Cancer can sometimes start with subtle signs that are often disregarded. Even though pain is not a typical early sign of breast cancer, persistent pain should not be ignored,” he said.

Dr Kanav Kumar, Consultant Surgical Oncology, Head and Neck Cancer Institute of India, also urges men to pay attention to changes around the nipple and breast skin.

“Men should look out for changes in the nipple or the skin around the breast, even if they cannot feel a lump. Warning signs include the nipple turning inward, unusual or blood-stained nipple discharge, redness, scaling, skin dimpling or sores that do not heal. Swelling in the armpit or near the collarbone should also be checked,” he said.

Dr Ritu Dave, Medical Oncologist and Hemato-Oncologist, M|O|C Cancer Care, Pune, too, identifies nipple inversion, bloody discharge, redness or scaling, skin dimpling, thickening, ulceration and changes in breast shape as signs requiring medical evaluation.

She said that these changes do not necessarily indicate cancer, but persistent or unexplained symptoms should not be ignored. Men should seek medical advice rather than wait for a lump to appear or for existing symptoms to worsen.

Also read: Breast Cancer At 26 Sent This US Woman Into Menopause Before 30: What Is The Hidden Toll Of Treatment

Why Is Breast Cancer Diagnosed Late In Men?

Low awareness and embarrassment contribute to delays in diagnosing male breast cancer. Many men do not consider the disease a possibility and may dismiss early symptoms as harmless.

Dr Bahl explains that men may delay seeking medical advice because of the assumption that breast cancer affects only women. He adds that symptoms may be neglected until a lump enlarges. Dr Jha points to a similar problem, stating that men may mistake a breast lump for a fat deposit, a hormonal change or a benign swelling.

Dr Kumar explains how these misconceptions can affect early detection. “Breast cancer is often seen as a woman's disease, so men may not recognise its symptoms or consider it a possibility. Some may dismiss a lump as harmless or delay seeing a doctor because of embarrassment or a lack of awareness,” he said.

Another important factor is the absence of routine screening for the general male population. As Dr Dave explains, “There is also no routine mammography screening for the general male population.”

This means that male breast cancer is often investigated only after symptoms become noticeable. Dr Dave also highlights an anatomical consideration: “Because men have less breast tissue, a tumour can reach the skin or nipple relatively early.”

Also read: Why Peak Incidence For Breast Cancer In India Occurs Between Ages 40–50, Compared To 60–70 In The US & Europe

Breast Cancer Or Gynecomastia?

Not every breast lump in a man is cancerous. Gynecomastia, a non-cancerous enlargement of male breast gland tissue, is a common alternative explanation. It may be caused due to hormonal changes or certain medications.However, men should not rely on how a lump feels to determine whether it is harmless.

Dr Bahl explains the typical differences between the two conditions. “Gynecomastia, or enlargement of breast tissue in men, commonly causes a rubbery or firm, often disc-shaped area directly beneath the nipple. It may affect one or both breasts and can be tender. A suspicious lump may feel hard.” he said.

Dr Jha also said that a cancerous lump is more likely to be hard, painless, irregular and present on one side, sometimes away from the nipple. Nipple inversion, bloody discharge, skin dimpling and underarm swelling are additional warning signs he flagged.

Which Men Are At Higher Risk Of Breast Cancer?

Although male breast cancer is uncommon, certain genetic and lifestyle factors can increase the risk. Dr Bahl said increasing age, strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, Klinefelter syndrome, previous chest radiation, liver disease, obesity and conditions associated with prolonged oestrogen exposure as relevant risk factors.

Dr. Kumar said, “The risk increases with age, particularly after 50.”

Other factors include previous radiation treatment to the chest and certain liver or testicular conditions. Dr Jha also identifies obesity and certain testicular disorders among the factors that require attention.

Dr Dave highlights the importance of identifying men with inherited mutations or a family history, who may need more monitoring.

She said, “Men with significant family history or inherited mutations should discuss genetic counselling and an individualised monitoring plan with their doctor. Routine mammography is not recommended for all men.”

Men with these risk factors should discuss these factors with their specialists. Depending on their medical and family history, genetic counselling, testing or personalised testing may be suitable.

Also read: US Woman’s Pancreatic Cancer Spotted On Routine Heart Scan: How It Saved Her Life

Tests Needed To Rule Out Breast Cancer In Men

When a man presents with specific breast changes, doctors begin with a clinical examination and an assessment of his medical and family history.

Dr Bahl explains that the initial evaluation includes examining the breasts and lymph nodes, followed by diagnostic imaging and a biopsy.

He said, “Depending on the findings and the patient's age, diagnostic imaging may include mammography and targeted ultrasound. If the examination or imaging raises suspicion, a core needle biopsy is generally performed to obtain tissue for pathological confirmation.”

Dr Jha explains why imaging alone may not be sufficient. “Imaging can show that a change is suspicious, but it cannot always prove cancer. Doctors usually diagnose it with a core needle biopsy, which removes a small piece of tissue,” he said.

The biopsy sample is examined to establish whether cancer is present. If the diagnosis is confirmed, further testing helps determine the type of cancer and treatment.

Dr Dave explains the role of additional tumour testing. “In case when cancer is diagnosed, further analysis of hormonal receptors and HER2 will be necessary,” she said.

Hormone receptor and HER2 results help doctors understand the tumour's features and design treatment. Depending on the clinical stage and findings, further investigations may be needed.

Dr Kumar stresses the importance of timely assessment, saying that the first step is a clinical examination, followed by mammography or ultrasound where indicated and a biopsy if the findings are suspicious.

Vaccines against influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and shingles are given to prevent infections. But new research suggests they may also help protect the heart, especially in older adults and people who already have cardiovascular disease.

A recent report published by The Washington Post speaks about the evidence of these four vaccines to lower rates of cardiovascular problems.

The evidence varies across vaccines, and not all studies establish that vaccination directly prevents heart disease. However, experts say preventing severe infections may help reduce the strain viruses place on the cardiovascular system.

“We’re beginning to understand the large number of problems these viruses can cause beyond, say, a cough and fever,” said Paul Heidenreich, a professor of cardiovascular medicine at Stanford Medicine, in the report.

Shingles Vaccine Linked To Lower Heart Disease

Shingles occurs when the varicella-zoster virus, which causes chickenpox, reactivates in the body. It can cause a painful rash and nerve pain. Research has also linked shingles to cardiovascular complications, including heart attacks and strokes.

A study published in Nature Medicine in August 2026 compared adults aged 60 and older who received the newer shingles vaccine, Shingrix, with those who received the older vaccine, Zostavax.

Over seven years of follow-up, people who received Shingrix had lower rates of ischaemic heart disease and heart failure than those who received Zostavax. The study did not prove that the vaccine caused the difference, but it added to earlier research on shingles vaccination and cardiovascular health.

A separate 2025 study of adults aged 50 and older also found an association between receiving two doses of Shingrix and a lower risk of stroke and heart attack.

Noreen Nazir, a cardiologist and co-author of recent American College of Cardiology guidance, described the new findings as “a really great addition to the literature”.

Also read: EXCLUSIVE: Ex-CDC Vaccine Advisor Says Measles Outbreak Bigger Than Reported, Slams RFK Jr’s ‘No-See Evil’ Approach

Flu Vaccine May Reduce Heart Attack Risk

Annual influenza vaccination is recommended for nearly everyone aged six months and older in the United States. Influenza can cause more than fever, cough and body aches. The infection can trigger inflammation, increase the strain on the heart and worsen cardiovascular disease.

According to The Washington Post, influenza infection was linked with a sixfold increase in hospitalisations for heart attacks during the week after a positive flu test.

The risk is concerning for people with existing heart disease. Severe influenza can worsen underlying conditions and increase the likelihood of cardiovascular complications.

William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and a co-author of the American College of Cardiology paper, said people hospitalised with an underlying high-risk condition like heart disease are “much more likely to have a cardiovascular event”.

Also read: Washington Reports Human Bird Flu Case After Dairy Cattle Exposure: Should You Be Worried?

COVID-19 Vaccines May Help Prevent Heart Complications

COVID-19 can affect the cardiovascular system during and after infection. Complications include heart attacks, strokes, abnormal heart rhythms and pericarditis, which is inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart.

People with pre-existing heart conditions are also at greater risk of severe COVID-19. During the pandemic, people with heart disease were three times as likely to develop severe infection, according to the report.

Research has also linked COVID-19 infection to longer-term vascular changes. A 2025 study published in the European Heart Journal found an association between COVID-19 and early vascular ageing, a process in which arteries become stiffer and less elastic.

The report notes that updated COVID-19 vaccines have been approved in the United States for adults aged 65 and older and younger people with at least one underlying health condition that increases their risk of complications.

RSV Vaccine May Help Protect Older Adults With Heart Disease

Respiratory syncytial virus causes a respiratory illness in infants and young children, but it can also cause severe disease in older adults. RSV can also worsen existing cardiovascular conditions, including heart failure.

A study spanning five RSV seasons found that nearly one-quarter of adults aged 50 and older who were hospitalised with RSV experienced an acute cardiac event, often involving heart failure. Those who had a cardiac emergency had nearly twice the risk of severe outcomes compared to those who did not.

Schaffner said, “There continues to be a high risk of cardiovascular events even after you recover from these viral infections,” he said.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a single dose of RSV vaccine for adults aged 75 and older and adults aged 50 to 74 who are at increased risk of severe RSV illness.