Migraine affects approximately one in three women in Australia, yet many struggle to receive an accurate diagnosis. Recent research indicates that women often perceive a lack of understanding regarding migraines among general practitioners (GPs).

Key Findings from the Migraine in Australian Women Report

This comprehensive study, conducted in collaboration with Jean Hailes for Women’s Health and Migraine and Headache Australia, samples 3,629 women aged 18 and older, marking it as a pivotal initiative within the 2025 National Women’s Health Survey.

• 30% reported receiving a lifetime migraine diagnosis.
• Around one third experienced migraine symptoms in the past three months.
• 13% experienced undiagnosed migraines recently.

The ramifications of migraines extend beyond physical symptoms, affecting various aspects of life:

• 80% reported an impact on work.
• 80% indicated their physical health was affected.
• 70% experienced mental health concerns.
• 60% noted disruptions in relationships with family and friends.
• 50% struggled with confidence and self-esteem.

Gender Disparities and Medical Consultations

Women aged 25–44 demonstrated higher rates of seeking medical assistance, often attributing their migraines to hormonal changes.

Dr. Sarah White, CEO of Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, characterized the findings as alarming, emphasizing the disproportionate impact on women during their most productive years: “Women are at least twice as likely as men to experience migraine. It hits hardest in their thirties, right when women are building careers, families, and their futures,” she stated.

Despite this prevalence, focus groups revealed that many women feel their GPs lack adequate awareness of migraines. Consequently, this leads to delays in diagnosis and treatment:

• Only 40% rated their experience in seeking a migraine diagnosis as positive.
• 30% described their experience as negative, and another 30% as neutral.

Dr. White highlighted the urgent need for improved understanding among healthcare professionals. “GPs are absolutely critical when it comes to recognizing and supporting women with migraine, as they’re often the first point of call and can shape the entire patient journey,” she said.

Recommendations for Improvement

Dr. Adele Stewart, Chair of RACGP Specific Interests in Pain Management, emphasized that migraines are not merely “bad headaches” but conditions that can severely disrupt quality of life. She proposed that GPs should adopt a proactive approach in consultations, especially during crucial hormonal changes such as perimenopause and menopause.

To better assist women, Dr. Stewart advocated for GPs to raise the topic of headaches or migraines during consultations and to employ a biopsychosocial approach to treatment. This includes:

• Tracking triggers and lifestyle changes.
• Implementing stress-reduction techniques.
• Utilizing safe and effective medication options.

To facilitate accurate diagnoses, Dr. White suggested using the ID migraine questionnaire, asking patients about the recent frequency and severity of their symptoms.