When it comes to women's health, heart disease doesn’t always get the attention it deserves—but it should. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women in the United States, responsible for 1 in 5 female deaths. Despite its prevalence, many women are unaware of their personal risk. At Cary OB/GYN in North Carolina, we believe prevention starts with awareness and action.
Why Heart Disease Affects Women Differently
Heart disease can look different in women than in men. While chest pain is common, women may also experience symptoms like nausea, fatigue, shortness of breath, back pain, or jaw pain. Hormonal changes during menopause can also increase heart risks by affecting blood vessels, cholesterol levels, and body fat distribution.
Key Risk Factors for Women Include:
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- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Menopause and low estrogen levels
What You Can Do to Reduce Your Risk
Small, consistent changes can have a big impact on your heart health. Here are three powerful tools to protect your heart:
1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
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- Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Choose healthy fats like olive oil, avocado, and nuts over saturated fats
- Limit processed foods, sodium, and added sugars
- Aim for high-fiber foods to help lower cholesterol
2. Move Your Body Regularly
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- 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (like brisk walking, biking, or swimming)
- Add strength training exercises at least twice a week
- Reduce sedentary time—sitting for long periods increases cardiovascular risk
3. Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) If Appropriate
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- After menopause, declining estrogen levels can increase the risk of heart disease
- HRT may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, support vascular function, and reduce central weight gain
- HRT isn’t right for everyone, but it can be beneficial when started early in postmenopause under medical supervision
The Importance of Routine Care
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—prevention and early detection save lives. Your OB/GYN can be a vital part of your heart health team. At Cary OB/GYN, we discuss your overall wellness at each visit, including blood pressure, weight, hormone levels, and lifestyle factors. Together, we can build a plan that supports a strong, healthy heart.
To schedule your next appointment, click here.
Further Reading:
https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/about/women-and-heart-disease.html