It's estimated that women are three times more likely than men to suffer from migraines.  The incidence of migraines in women is about 18%. In men the incidence is about 6%. 

Neurologist Marc Schlosberg says the difference may be attributed to monthly hormonal changes among women.  In women there is a strong association between migraines and estrogen. In particular it's an abrupt drop in the estrogen level and this occurs towards the end of the period. It can also occur at the end of pregnancy. 

Experts believe migraine symptoms are likely to be worse among some women taking birth control pills.  It might just be related to the fact that if you're taking a pill then you have a level that is going up and down rather than what you have naturally during your cycle when it gradually increases over time.  The good news according to Schlosberg: many women report their migraines go away after menopause when estrogen levels stop fluctuating.