The dangerous side of menopause no one talks about

And how to lower your risk

In addition to the uncomfortable physical and hormonal changes that women endure throughout menopause, one particular side effect can prove to be deadly. Here’s what one expert wants women to know about their cardiovascular health as they age. 

Whether you are on the cusp of menopause or going through the motions as we speak, you’re probably familiar with some of the major physical and emotional symptoms that kick in as women age. 

As we bid farewell to our reproductive years with a course of hot flushes, brain fog and fatigue, the body undergoes a series of hormonal shifts that impact almost every system. 

One aspect that experts say is widely underreported, is the impact of menopause on a woman’s cardiovascular health. Here’s what Dr Treasure McGuire, an Associate Professor of Pharmacology at Bond University, wants all women to know. 

How menopause impacts heart health

During menopause, as a woman’s estrogen levels begin to decline rapidly, so does the hormone’s ability to provide cardiovascular support, potentially leading to an increased risk of weight gain and the buildup of plaque (fats, cholesterol and other substances) in and on the artery walls.

The results of such build-up can be catastrophic if left untreated, causing arteries to narrow and restrict blood flow, leading to angina, a heart attack, a blood clot or a potential stroke, says Dr McGuire.  

“As early as 1976, the Framingham Heart Study (US long-term study begun in 1948) reported more than twice the rates of cardiovascular events in postmenopausal than pre-menopausal women of the same age. This study showed early menopause (under 40) also increases heart risk,” she adds. 

“Cardiovascular disease can be a ‘silent’ killer, with no symptoms until a heart attack or stroke occurs. So, it is important for every woman experiencing symptoms of perimenopause (hot flushes, sweats, fatigue)  to consider this as an alert to understand their individual cardiovascular risks and take steps to reduce preventable risks,” adds the pharmacology expert.  

During menopause, protective hormones start to deplete. Image: iStock

How all women can reduce their long-term risks

According to Dr McGuire, it’s important for women of all ages to keep up to date with their annual health checks and consult with a health professional over any concerns that may arise early on.

 “The first step for every woman approaching menopause is to ask their GP for a 20-minute Heart Health Check to better understand their risk of a heart attack or stroke and get tailored strategies to reduce it,” she says. 

Other general lifestyle measures should also be taken to identify and monitor specific risks to heart health – such as poor diet, low physical activity, obesity, smoking, blood pressure and cholesterol levels. 

Additionally, women approaching perimenopause and menopause should aim to include regular 30-minute intervals of moderate-intensity exercise such as brisk walking, riding a bike, or water aerobics four to five times every week. 

Taking control of how you fuel your body is also integral to supporting lasting heart health, with Dr McGuire suggesting aging women prioritise low-calorie, nutrient-rich foods, such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Avoiding saturated fats and processed foods will also help manage one’s risk of heart disease. 

Avoiding smoking nicotine and cannabis entirely, and reducing alcohol consumption is also recommended by the expert. 

Taking control of how you fuel your body is also integral to supporting lasting heart health. Image: Pexels

Why is female heart disease an underreported issue?

Despite heart disease being the biggest killer of women globally – and in high-income countries – Dr McGuire says many women still underestimate their risk of developing serious complications as they age, with more research and representation needed across the board to help educate women at risk. 

“I was most surprised by research that found women had less fear of heart disease than breast cancer, with participants believing they were more in control of preventing heart disease,” shares Dr McGuire.  

“When most people talk about heart disease, their typical image is of a man with poor lifestyle habits at risk of heart attack or stroke, but the same would be true for a middle-aged woman with similar habits. Yet heart disease is the biggest killer of women across the world, globally and in high-income countries.”

Originally published as The dangerous side of menopause no one talks about