Women With Migraine May Have a Higher Risk of Pregnancy Complications

According to a preliminary study, women with migraine may have a higher risk of pregnancy complications (eg, gestational hypertension, preterm delivery, and preeclampsia). Among women with migraine, the presence of aura was associated with a 51% higher risk of preeclampsia compared with a 29% higher risk in those with migraine and no aura.

Women with migraine had a 28% higher risk of gestational hypertension, 17% higher risk of preterm delivery, and a 40% higher risk of preeclampsia, after adjusting for age, obesity, and other behavioral and health risk factors. 

"Roughly 20% of women of childbearing age experience migraine, but the impact of migraine on pregnancy outcomes has not been well understood," said study author Alexandra Purdue-Smithe, PhD, of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston. "Our large prospective study found links between migraine and pregnancy complications that could help inform doctors and women with migraine of potential risks they should be aware of during pregnancy."

"While the risks of these complications are still quite low overall, women with a history of migraine should be aware of and consult with their doctor on potential pregnancy risks," said Purdue-Smithe. "More research is needed to determine exactly why migraine may be associated with higher risks of complications. In the meantime, women with migraine may benefit from closer monitoring during pregnancy so that complications like preeclampsia can be identified and managed as soon as possible."

This study reviewed complications in over 30,000 pregnancies experienced by more than 19,000 women, 11% of whom reported being diagnosed with migraine by a doctor prior to their pregnancy. 

Further details of this study will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 74th Annual Meeting, April 2-7, 2022 in Seattle, WA.