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Estrogel increase and migraines

4 replies

perihelpneeded · 09/08/2026 13:19

I have recently increased from 2 to 3 pumps and on 2 pumps of gel was absolutely fine, but going up to 3 after 4 days I got a horrid migraine yesterday which didnt go away until 4am. Today I can feel it starting again. Is this something anyone else has had happen? If so did it go away if I just ride it out?

I will speak to my GP but the appointments are not quick or easy to get, I booked an appointment over a month ago and still have a couple weeks to wait. So just trying to figure if I keep pushing or change things a bit.

For context I also had the mirena coil put in around 9 weeks ago when I had surgery. All other types of progesterone seemed to give me issues but so far this seems ok aside from the pain, but I also have endometriosis and adenomyosis so the pain could just be a flare up from that.

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JinglingSpringbells · 09/08/2026 13:24

Why have you increased?

You could do it in smaller amounts- half a pump extra for a few weeks then up to 3 if you need more.

perihelpneeded · 09/08/2026 13:31

I increased as I had an initial improvement when I started back in February but noticed it was like it wasn't enough of a help if that makes sense. So I was getting sleep issues (couldn't fall asleep and then waking up with nightmares or jolting awake), worsening anxiety, low mood, joint pain. But we put off moving up a dose because my progesterone was an issue, however since getting the coil that seems ok but the problems became more noticeable so my GP said increase to 3 pumps and we will discuss it at my next appointment.

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JinglingSpringbells · 09/08/2026 13:34

I'd suggest you increase is slowly. 2 pumps and a dab more, (just don't press the plunger all the way down) and fid your sweet spot.

I've used gel for over 15 years and switched between 1, 2 and 3 pumps over the years. Now, I use 1 and a bit (but am many years older than you and post meno.)

perihelpneeded · 09/08/2026 14:21

This sounds like a good plan, I wasnt sure whether to try splitting the dose through the day but will try this and do the increase a bit slower as I do seem to be sensitive to hormone changes so perhaps it is a bit too much to quick.

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