Heart health after menopause
Also known as:
Cardiovascular risk in women, menopause and cholesterol
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, and risk climbs after menopause.
Written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD · Last reviewed
VIDEO LESSON
What changes
Across the menopause transition, LDL cholesterol and ApoB rise, blood pressure tends to climb and visceral fat increases. The American Heart Association recognizes the transition as a time of accelerating cardiovascular risk.
Who is at higher risk
• Early menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency
• A history of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes or high blood pressure in pregnancy
• Frequent, persistent hot flashes in some studies
• Family history, smoking, diabetes and kidney disease
What helps
• Know your numbers: blood pressure, LDL or ApoB, Lp(a) once, glucose and A1c
• Follow the AHA's Life's Essential 8: diet, activity, nicotine, sleep, weight, cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure
• Statins and other medicines when risk is high
Good to know
Hormone therapy is prescribed for symptoms, not to prevent heart disease. Starting it near menopause appears safer for the heart than starting a decade or more later.
Key studies and references
Educational content only, written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD. It does not replace individual medical advice. For sudden chest pain, trouble breathing or stroke symptoms, call 911.
AT A GLANCE
Category
Heart & myth-busting
Also known as
Cardiovascular risk in women, menopause and cholesterol
Reviewed by
Farhan Tahir, MD
Questions about your own care?
Dr. Tahir’s team offers consults through Youthful Medicine.
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