• Why are migraines more common in females?

  • Sources:

    Migraines are more prevalent in females, with estimates suggesting they occur at rates two to three times higher compared to males, particularly peaking in early adulthood, around the ages 25 to 40 1. The reasons for this gender disparity are complex and not entirely understood. Although hormonal fluctuations are often considered a factor, they do not fully explain the prevalence difference. Even when controlling for hormonal changes during menstrual cycles, migraines remain more common in females 2.

    Pregnancy may offer some protection against migraines for reasons that are not fully understood, possibly hinting at a hormonal influence, but this does not account for the entire picture 2. Additionally, societal factors have historically influenced the perception of migraines, often attributing the condition to personality traits or lifestyle aspects, which are heavily gendered and not scientifically substantiated 3. These insights suggest that while hormonal changes play a role, other biological and social factors likely contribute to why migraines are more common in females.

    RELATED QUESTIONS