Cardiovascular Advice, Managing Symptoms, Menopause Advice, Perimenopause, Post Menopause
When most women think about menopause, they picture hot flushes, mood changes, or disrupted sleep. What often goes unnoticed is the impact on heart health.
Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women in the UK. And risk increases sharply after menopause. Yet heart health rarely features in the menopause conversation.
Why Oestrogen Matters for the Heart
Oestrogen isn’t just a reproductive hormone, it protects blood vessels, regulates cholesterol, and helps keep arteries flexible.
As oestrogen levels decline during menopause:
LDL cholesterol (the “bad” kind) tends to rise
Arteries may stiffen, increasing blood pressure
Fat distribution shifts towards the abdomen, increasing risk for diabetes and metabolic syndrome
These changes raise the long-term risk of heart attack and stroke.
Spotting the Signs Early
Heart disease in women often looks different to men, with symptoms like:
Breathlessness
Fatigue
Indigestion-like discomfort
Pain in the jaw, neck, or back
Sadly, these signs are sometimes dismissed as stress or menopause symptoms — leading to delayed diagnosis.
How to Protect Your Heart in Midlife
The good news: there’s a lot women can do.
Regular health checks: Monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar.
Exercise: Aim for a mix of cardio and strength training.
Nutrition: Focus on fibre, healthy fats, and reduced processed food.
Stress and sleep: Both directly affect cardiovascular health.
HRT: For some women, starting HRT around the time of menopause may have protective effects on the heart, but the research does not suggest prescribing it for this reason alone.
Menopause is more than a hormonal milestone — it’s a cardiovascular turning point. By understanding the link between declining oestrogen and heart health, women can take proactive steps to protect their future.
Book a consultation at Bristol Menopause Clinic to discuss your heart health and menopause journey with one of our specialists.