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How does menopause affect heart health?

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nathan Roth, MDCM, FRCSC, FACOG · Updated 2026-11-01

How does menopause affect heart health?

After menopause, LDL cholesterol and blood pressure tend to rise and cardiovascular disease becomes the leading long-term health threat for women. HRT is not prescribed solely to prevent heart disease; when started early for symptoms in appropriate candidates, it does not carry the same risk profile as late initiation in older WHI participants. Midlife is the time to optimize lipids, glucose, blood pressure, smoking cessation, and exercise. HormoneFit addresses symptoms and cardiovascular risk factors together.

  • Heart disease risk rises after menopause
  • HRT is for symptoms (and selected indications) — not a statin substitute
  • Early timing differs from late initiation
  • Lifestyle and risk-factor control remain foundational

What to ask at midlife

Know your blood pressure, lipids, A1c, smoking status, and family history. Treat menopause symptoms without neglecting prevention.

Related HormoneFit resources

References & guidelines

  1. The Menopause Society — Hormone Therapy Position Statement 2022
  2. Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC)
  3. Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada — women and heart disease

This page is educational and does not replace personalized medical advice. HormoneFit physicians assess each patient individually. Women in Ontario can book a virtual consultation.

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