The Migraine Story

As some of you might know, (as most of you probably know) I have struggled with persistent chronic migraines for much of the past five years. I see a neurologist in the city here, who is considered one of the top headache specialists where I live. I spent the better part of three years getting control of the migraines with diet and lifestyle changes and lots of medications. For the last two years, I have been pretty happy with my migraine control.

When Justin and I married (18 months ago!) I knew that eventually I would have to stop taking the medication I take every day to prevent migraines so that we could eventually try to get pregnant. This medication is imipramine (ih-MIH-pra-mean) and I take it every night before I go to sleep. This drug causes known first trimester birth defects. Therefore, I cannot become pregnant on this medication.

I had put off weaning myself from imipramine because I did not want my head to hurt. I don't like it, at all, when I am in pain every day from headaches. I get grumpy and weepy at about day 8 or 9 of a constant headache. I started praying that I would have the strength and courage to start, but I still kept putting it off. Last May (2010) the Lord spoke to my heart and reassured me that He knew me and He knew my migraines and that it was time to start weaning.

to be continued......