Menopause has been linked to cardiovascular disease(CVD) in a number of studies, including risk factors such as increased LDL (bad cholesterol) and decreasing HDL (good cholesterol). Furthermore, studies that have followed women over time have discovered that individuals with early menopause (45 and younger) had greater cardiovascular health difficulties later in life than those with menopause closer to the average age (about 50).
Women acquire heart disease later than males due to the protection they receive during their reproductive years. The risk increases as they approach menopause. In women, estrogen has a preventive impact against heart disease. As a result, in the majority of instances, the risk of CVD increases after menopause.
The ovaries progressively quit generating estrogen during menopause. Hormone replacement treatment (HRT) is a method of replenishing estrogen and regulating typical menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, as well as preventing osteoporosis. Estrogen drugs are frequently given orally as a tablet, topically as a cream or patch, or intravaginally.
Hormone replacement treatment (HT) has been used to treat menopausal symptoms and may give some protection against CVDs. The timing of HT, on the other hand, appears to be essential. According to research, starting HT within 10 years following menopause is the most beneficial.
Key takeaways:
- The timing of HT may be critical for women’s heart health.
- HT is most effective when started within 10 years of menopause.
- HT may not be as effective at preventing CVD once atherosclerosis has developed.