Menopause and Heart Disease: What Every Woman Should Know

February is American Heart Month. It’s the perfect time for people of all ages, including menopausal women, who are more at risk of heart disease after this transition, to learn what they can do to prevent it

Our compassionate team at Pflugerville OBGYN helps women navigate all stages of their lives, including menopause. We offer hormone management to help you understand the ins and outs of hormone production, including estrogen and progesterone, which decrease during menopause. We also offer well-woman exams and much more.

Setting the stage

A woman goes into menopause when her periods stop. After 12 months without a period, she’s considered post-menopausal. Additional symptoms may occur, such as:

• Hot flashes
• Sleep problems
• More pronounced mood changes

If you’re unsure whether you’ve reached menopause, our team takes a blood test to check hormone levels and analyze your situation. 

Aging gracefully

During menopause, a woman’s body employs energy differently. It’s easier to put on weight. Other physical changes include:

• Drop in bone density
• Skin dryness
• Stiff joints and muscles

We also discuss ways to gauge your heart’s health at this crucial period of your life. 

The role of estrogen in heart disease

Estrogen keeps arteries flexible so blood flows easily. Lower estrogen levels during menopause weaken artery walls. As estrogen drops, blood pressure may also rise, putting additional strain on your heart. You’re also apt to gain more weight around your middle, which can further lead to heart disease. As body fat increases, your risk for diabetes, which has been linked to cardiovascular disease, also grows.

Our doctors offer hormone management and other tools to help you:

1. Lose weight
2. Sleep sounder
3. Regulate moods
4. Focus better

Take heart. We’ll suggest a variety of solutions to keep you fit and focused.

Lifestyle changes your heart will love

Our team works with you to lower your risk for heart disease before, during, and after menopause. We suggest:

• Regular exercise. Participate in low-impact aerobic exercise, such as walking, cycling, dancing, and swimming, at least thrice weekly.
• Reduce stress. Meditation, yoga, and even socializing with friends can help lower stress and the odds of heart disease.
• Don’t smoke. Not only does smoking contribute to early menopause, but it also increases the possibility of blood clots and lowers good cholesterol.

You are what you eat

A heart-healthy diet does wonders for your energy, mood, and overall well-being. Certain foods counteract the negative effects menopause holds on your heart and beyond. We recommend you consume:

• Healthier fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish and meat, eggs, and dairy sourced from grass-fed animals
• Dairy products containing calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamins D and K, such as milk, cheese and yogurt
• Quality protein from plants and animals to increase muscle mass lost during menopause
• A rainbow of fruits and vegetables for better overall health and fewer menopausal symptoms

We also advise limiting sugar, salt, and caffeine to lessen symptoms such as weight gain, sleep issues, and hot flashes.

You’ll Heart Pflugerville OBGYN

Our caring providers work with you on hormone management and other topics, suggesting ways to keep you and your heart healthy during this transition. Simply request an appointment with the team at Pflugerville OBGYN in Pflugerville, Texas, today.