In France, around seven million people experience migraines, which are severe, recurring headaches. A recent study published in the journal Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain explored the relationship between macromastia, a condition where breasts are disproportionately large, and various health issues. The study, carried out by researchers at the Stanford Medical Center from 2017 to 2024, analyzed the medical records of 687 women who visited clinics specializing in headaches and neurology. Out of these women, 347 had macromastia. The findings indicated that women with macromastia had a 40% higher risk of developing chronic migraines, which are defined as headaches occurring at least 15 days a month for more than three months. They also had about twice the risk of experiencing cervical pain and more than twice the risk of cervical radiculopathy, a condition caused by compressed or irritated nerves in the neck. Additionally, these women had a 54% higher risk of suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where breathing repeatedly stops during sleep. The research team emphasized that their study was retrospective and cross-sectional, meaning it analyzed existing medical records rather than following patients over time. Therefore, it does not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship between macromastia and the health conditions studied. However, the researchers believe their findings are significant enough to justify further investigation. Kristyn Pocock, MD, associate professor of neurology at the Wake Forest School of Medicine and lead author of the study, noted that while many women view macromastia as an aesthetic issue, it may be linked to a broader range of health concerns. She said that understanding these connections could help women receive more comprehensive evaluations and appropriate care for symptoms that impact their daily lives. The potential health effects of macromastia are influenced by several factors, such as the weight of the breasts pressing on the neck, shoulders, and upper back, which can cause musculoskeletal pain and nerve irritation. Other factors, including inflammation, hormonal changes, physical activity, and sleep quality, may also play a role. A previous study found that women who underwent breast reduction surgery experienced a significant decrease in the number of headache days per month. Breast reduction, also known as reduction mammoplasty, is the standard treatment for macromastia. Cervical pain is the most common reason women choose this surgery, while migraines, sleep apnea, and cervical radiculopathy are not typically the main reasons for seeking surgery. Some studies have shown that breast reduction surgery may help individuals with headaches, but the evidence remains limited. In one study, Professor Pocock and her team followed 34 women who had breast reduction due to multiple symptoms, including headaches. After the surgery, 79% of these women reported a reduction of at least 50% in the number of headache days per month. Improvements were also noted in the frequency, intensity, and impact of headaches. Another study by Professor Pocock, published in 2026, found that the frequency, intensity, and impact of headaches, as well as the risk of sleep apnea, improved after breast reduction. However, the study involved a small number of participants, highlighting the need for more extensive research. The researchers stressed that breast reduction should not be considered a treatment for headaches yet, as more extensive studies are needed. If you have macromastia, it is recommended to consult a doctor to determine the most suitable treatment. Breast reduction is not the only option—physiotherapy, wearing an appropriate bra, or using analgesics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also help alleviate symptoms.