(CNN) For millions of Americans, a migraine is more than a bad headache — it can be debilitating.

It's estimated that women are three times more likely than men to suffer from migraines.

“So, the incidence of migraines in women is about 18 percent or so,” said neurologist Dr. Marc Schlosberg. “In men, it’s about 6 percent.”

Dr. Schlosberg says the difference may be attributed to monthly hormonal changes among women.

“In women, there is a strong association between the migraines and estrogen,” he explained. “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 get naturally during your cycle, where it gradually increases over time,” Dr. Schlosberg said.

The good news according to Schlosberg: Many women report their migraines go away after menopause, when estrogen levels stop fluctuating.