Early Menopause Could Lead to Greater Risk of Heart Failure

In a US-based study, researchers have found that women who hit menopause early are at a greater risk of heart failure. The study was done by a team of researchers from seven US institutions. They analysed data from around 28,000 women.

During their research, they also found that if a woman has never given birth, then she is twice as likely to get diastolic heart failure, compared to women who have children.

Nisha Parikh, a co-author from the University of California, San Francisco,  said that they used the study to see how the reproductive system, as well as pregnancy, can affect a woman’s heart. The study, however, hasn’t explored the reason behind the link - researchers say that it could because early menopause may decrease the production of sex hormones such as oestrogen. The rise of polycystic ovarian syndrome has led to infertility among women, which again reduces hormones in the body, in turn increasing the risk of heart disease. Nisha Parikh says, “It could be lifestyle factors at play, certainly you could hypothesise that there could be factors like depression that might underlie the association in some women.”

Nisha said that the study aims to raise awareness about reproductive health and cardiovascular health and the link between the two. She said that doctors should be aware of the risks and should discuss it with their patients.

Dr Azra Safdari, based in Mangalore read about the study, and said, "Women with earlier menopause should consult their doctors about the risk of heart diseases.  A steady diet, as well as regular exercise, are two things that can go a long way in preventing this."

Pic credits: Medical Daily

Also read: Why Exercise Is Important During Menopause