An estimated 6,000 women in the U.S. enter menopause every day, according to the National Institutes of Health, yet many are unaware that the years surrounding menopause can significantly influence heart health. During Menopause Awareness Month, the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement and The Menopause Society are sharing critical information to help women protect their cardiovascular health. The organizations emphasize that while menopause does not cause cardiovascular disease, the changes that occur during this time—including higher cholesterol levels, increased body fat around organs, and stiffening blood vessels—can elevate risk.
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in women, but only 4 in 10 women recognize it as their greatest health threat, according to the American Heart Association. “Many women spend years preparing for pregnancy and motherhood; yet receive far less information about menopause before it begins,” said Jen Ashton, M.D., M.S., an American Heart Association volunteer and board member. “Understanding what to expect can help women feel more informed, more confident and better prepared to care for their health during this stage of life.”
The years leading up to and after menopause are a particularly important window for prevention. By the time women reach menopause, approximately 90% have at least one risk factor for heart disease, noted Chrisandra L. Shufelt, MD, MS, FACP, MSCP, current board member and past president of The Menopause Society. “Significant cardiometabolic changes occur during the menopause transition,” she said. “This is an important window to identify risk factors early, address them proactively and help women protect their cardiovascular health for decades to come.”
Many women spend about 40% of their lives in postmenopause, making midlife a crucial time to know heart health numbers such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose. Perimenopause, the period around menopause, often brings the most noticeable symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, weight gain, palpitations, and brain fog. These symptoms can be managed, and they also signal an opportunity to discuss heart health with a healthcare team.
Beyond traditional risk factors, kidney health is often overlooked. A 2026 American Heart Association scientific statement notes that menopause and aging can accelerate chronic kidney disease, a major contributor to heart disease and stroke risk. Additionally, a study of more than 83,000 women ages 50-79 published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that after menopause, an estimated 1 in 4 may develop atrial fibrillation, an irregular heart rhythm, during their lifetime. Stressful life events and insomnia were identified as major contributing factors.
Experts encourage women to know their heart health numbers, stay physically active, eat healthy foods, prioritize sleep, manage stress, and learn their personal risk factors. They also recommend talking with a healthcare team about any concerns. For evidence-based menopause information and to find a certified practitioner, The Menopause Society offers resources at menopause.org. The American Heart Association provides a menopause resource center at Go Red for Women menopause resource center. Additional information is available at goredforwomen.org/menopause and heart.org.
“There is no one-size-fits-all menopause experience,” Ashton said. “Every woman deserves access to information, support and resources that help her make informed decisions and feel her best.” With awareness and proactive care, women can navigate menopause with better heart health outcomes.
