Menopause & Heart Disease
- katerinacoach4life
- Jun 5
- 1 min read
Updated: Jun 26
By Katerina Skapoullis
Did you know that menopause can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke?
Female sex hormones like oestrogen protect your heart and brain by keeping your blood vessels relaxed and open and helping to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
The earlier you lose the protective effect of oestrogen, the higher your risk for heart disease and stroke.
During menopause, declining oestrogen levels may cause:
Stiffening and weakening of the blood vessels
High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Changes in body weight and body shape
Changes in muscle and fat stores.
These changes can occur gradually, without you noticing. So, it is important to get your heart health checked with your doctor.
In particular, if you have experienced early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency, it is even more important that you should speak to your healthcare provider about the options available to supplement the decline in your hormones to protect yourself from increased risk of heart disease.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) should also be offered to you unless there is a reason why oestrogen is not recommended.
For people who cannot take hormone replacement therapy, making sustainable lifestyle changes is especially good for their heart health as well as their general physical and mental wellbeing.
If you’re looking for additional support with lifestyle changes to help manage hormonal related challenges, symptoms and improve your overall health, contact Positive Changes Coaching to book a 20-minute free call to discuss your options. Email: Katerinacoach4life@gmail.com
For information on menopause and heart disease/stroke visit the Irish Heart Foundation
Note: This information is for educational purposes and shouldn't replace professional medical advice.
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