Migraine headaches and preeclampsia: an epidemiologic review.
OBJECTIVE
To summarize and evaluate available empirical research on the relationship between migraines and gestational hypertension or preeclampsia and to provide direction for future research in this area.


BACKGROUND
Migraines affect a substantial proportion of reproductive-aged women and have been associated with cardiovascular risk factors and ischemic disease in this population. Preeclampsia is a vascular disorder of pregnancy, also linked to adverse cardiovascular outcomes.


METHODS
Publications were identified by a MEDLINE search using keywords "migraine,""preeclampsia," and "gestational hypertension," and by examination of the reference lists of identified articles.


RESULTS
The literature review yielded 10 studies addressing the association between migraines and preeclampsia or gestational hypertension. Of the 10 studies, 8 reported a positive association between the syndromes.


CONCLUSIONS
Available evidence suggests that migraines and preeclampsia may reflect an underlying predisposition toward ischemic injury. More rigorous epidemiologic research is warranted, after consideration of several important methodologic issues.
Adeney
Kathryn L
KL
Center for Perinatal Studies, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, WA 98122, USA.
Williams
Michelle A
MA
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D046110:Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced / Q000453:epidemiology*; D008881:Migraine Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011225:Pre-Eclampsia / Q000453:epidemiology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D015995:Prevalence; D012307:Risk Factors