Doctors Warn of Increased Heart Disease Risk During Menopause

Medical experts are urging women to prioritize cardiovascular monitoring as the transition into menopause increases the risk of heart disease [1, 2].

This health shift is critical because the decline of estrogen levels during menopause removes a natural protective barrier for the heart [3, 5]. Without this hormonal support, women face a higher susceptibility to cardiovascular issues that may have been dormant or managed in earlier stages of life.

During a broadcast on Good Morning America, Dr. Tara Narula and Dr. Jennifer Ashton, founder of Ajenda, said strategies for managing this transition are necessary ^[1]. They said that the drop in estrogen does not just cause traditional symptoms like hot flashes, but fundamentally alters the body's lipid profiles and arterial health [3, 5].

To mitigate these risks, the doctors said a proactive approach to health monitoring is recommended. This includes regular screenings for blood pressure and cholesterol, as these markers can shift rapidly during the menopausal window [1, 2]. Early detection of hypertension or high cholesterol allows for interventions before a major cardiac event occurs.

Lifestyle adjustments also play a primary role in protection. The experts said heart-healthy nutrition and consistent physical activity are important to counteract the metabolic changes associated with aging and hormonal loss [1, 3].

Because symptoms of heart disease in women can differ from those in men, the doctors said the importance of recognizing subtle warning signs is key. Women are encouraged to communicate specifically about cardiovascular concerns with their providers during menopause consultations to ensure that heart health is not overlooked in favor of treating only vasomotor symptoms [1, 2].