For women, menopause is more than a reproductive health milestone; it can also mark an important turning point for heart health. Women face unique risks related to cardiovascular health at every stage of life. The years before and after menopause are a critical time to be aware of and address the increased risks related to heart disease and stroke.

A number of studies presented at the American Heart Association’s (Heart.org) scientific meetings or published in the Association’s medical journals note the increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other health complications during various stages of menopause:

  • After menopause an estimated 1 in 4 women may develop irregular heart rhythms – known as atrial fibrillation – in their lifetime, with stressful life events and insomnia being major contributing factors, according to one study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association (JAHA).
  • Another JAHA study found that obesity signifi cantly increased heart failure risk among women who experienced late menopause – at age 55 or older.
  • A study presented at the Association’s 2022 Epidemiology, Prevention, Lifestyle & Cardiometabolic Health Conference (EPI), found that women who naturally entered menopause by the age of 40 had a 40% increased risk of developing coronary heart disease over their lifetime, compared to women who did not go through early menopause.

Menopause does not cause cardiovascular disease; however, during the menopausal transition women experience many changes in their bodies, including some that can impact their cardiovascular health like a decline in estrogen levels, hot flashes and night sweats, depression and sleep problems.

The American Heart Association offers a few important tips for boosting your heart health before, during and after menopause. Exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, getting healthy sleep,
and focusing on mental well-being are all actions that can be taken to minimize risk to cardiovascular health around menopause.

Learn more about menopause and women’s cardiovascular health at Heart.org.