Did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States? It’s true — and although it can affect anyone at any age, your risk of heart disease significantly increases after menopause.
February is American Heart Month, making now the perfect time to educate yourself about how menopause impacts your cardiovascular health and what you can do to protect your heart. Our team at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta specializes in menopause care, and we’re here to answer your questions. Let's get started.
Menopause starts when you have gone one full year since your last menstrual period. It typically arrives sometime between the ages of 45 and 55, and although it’s a natural transition, it brings hormonal changes that include a significant drop in estrogen levels.
Estrogen helps your body maintain healthy blood vessels, control cholesterol levels, and reduce fat buildup in your arteries. When it declines during menopause, that shift can increase your risk of heart disease.
Menopause can also coincide with other changes that increase your risk of heart disease. For example, your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels can increase, while HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels decrease.
You may also be at greater risk of high blood pressure and weight gain, and all of these factors can add to the strain on your cardiovascular system, too.
Menopause can increase your risk of heart disease, but that doesn’t mean heart problems are inevitable. Taking proactive steps now can lower your risk of complications and help you enjoy better health as you get older.
We’re here to help you develop a personalized strategy for life during and after menopause. A few effective strategies can include:
Focus on nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit saturated fats, trans fats, and added sugars to support healthy cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Regular physical activity, like brisk walking, swimming, or yoga, strengthens your heart, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.
Chronic stress can disrupt your heart health. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling to reduce its effects and enjoy a more positive state of mind.
Smoking damages blood vessels and increases your risk of heart disease over time. Quitting smoking can improve your heart health almost immediately, even if you’ve been smoking for a long time.
Routine medical care is essential for monitoring your heart health. At OB-GYN Associates of Marietta, we’re dedicated to empowering women to take charge of their heart health during menopause and beyond.
We offer comprehensive screenings, lifestyle counseling, and tailored treatment plans to help you manage risk factors and enjoy your best possible health.
This American Heart Month, commit to prioritizing your cardiovascular health. Small, consistent changes can make a big difference, and we’re here to help. Book an appointment at one of our offices in Marietta and Woodstock, Georgia, at 770-422-8700 to get started today.
