Menopause and hypertension: the link you need to understand

You walk into a consultation for what
seems like a slight dizzy spell. “Nothing serious,” you think. Yet the
blood pressure monitor tells a different story. Since when did your
blood pressure start working against you? There’s no family history, you
haven’t drastically changed your diet, and still, something isn’t quite
right. Then, your doctor mentions two words that may seem unrelated but
are more connected than you realise: menopause and
hypertension.

If you’re not fully familiar with the subject, this is the moment to
explore how these two are linked, and more importantly, what you can do
to feel well again.

What is the relationship between menopause and
hypertension?

As women enter this natural stage, certain biological changes occur
that are directly tied to increased blood pressure, something once
thought to be less common at younger ages.

Put simply, the gradual decline in female hormones disrupts the
balance of the circulatory system. This, in turn, often leads to higher
blood pressure readings and, consequently, an elevated cardiovascular
risk in menopause (1).

How do
hormonal changes affect vascular tension?

Keep in mind that falling oestrogen levels have a direct impact on
the blood vessels. As these hormones drop, arteries become less
flexible.

This increased stiffness plays a key role in hypertension in
menopause. At the same time, the delicate balance between other
regulatory mechanisms shifts, leading to higher peripheral resistance
(2).

Menopause and hypertension: risk factors

Although hormonal decline is a significant trigger, several other
factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing both menopause and
hypertension (3,4):

• Genetics and lifestyle choices.

• A sedentary routine, such as spending long hours sitting down,
  combined with a diet high in salt or saturated fats.

• Ongoing stress.

• Pre-existing conditions such as being overweight or having
  diabetes.

Does
hormone therapy affect high blood pressure?

The link between these two conditions is still widely debated. For
some women, hormone therapy can help ease menopause and
hypertension symptoms. By restoring hormonal balance, it may
exert a positive effect on the vascular system.

However, in certain cases, hormone therapy has also been associated
with slightly higher blood pressure. The outcome isn’t uniform and often
depends on factors such as:

• The prescribed dose.

• The type of hormones used.

• The length of treatment.

For this reason, never self-medicate. Always seek guidance from
specialists who can give you the right instructions and ensure proper
follow-up. This way, you’ll be able to weigh the benefits and risks of
hormone therapy for effective blood pressure control during menopause
(5).

The link between weight gain, menopause and
hypertension

Have you noticed your weight creeping up lately? This is a very
common experience. Metabolism tends to slow down, and fat distribution
often shifts, particularly around the abdomen. This change impacts blood
pressure, as fat tissue produces inflammatory substances that disrupt
vascular function.

It’s also worth noting that excess weight can worsen other
conditions. That’s why a diet for menopause with hypertension can help
reduce strain on the circulatory system and keep blood pressure under
control (6).

Menopause and hypertension: recommendations for
control

Fortunately, there are practical steps you can take. By following an
effective strategy, you can move through this stage more healthily. Key
recommendations include (7):

• Adopt a balanced diet
  low in salt and rich in fruits and vegetables.

• Stay physically active with moderate, consistent exercise to
  protect heart health and maintain a stable weight.

• Manage stress with relaxation techniques or seek psychological
  support if needed.

• For example, attend regular medical check-ups.

• Stay informed. Make use of books for ladies, guides,
  and resources designed to support women’s health.

Why does
blood pressure rise after menopause?

As oestrogen levels drop, both vasodilator and antioxidant mechanisms
lose strength. This leads to stiffer arteries and, as a result, higher
blood pressure.

Other metabolic changes also come into play, increasing
susceptibility. In short, the end of menstruation marks a turning point
in circulatory health (8,9).

Sex
hormones and cardiovascular risk after menopause

As we’ve seen, the definitive end of menstruation often brings a
significantly higher risk of cardiovascular issues. So, what can you do
about it? Two essential and practical actions are adjusting your
lifestyle and scheduling regular medical follow-ups.

Without doubt, menopause and hypertension walk hand
in hand, bringing changes that affect your body, your emotions, and your
everyday life. Yet you are not alone.

For instance, at Issviva,
you’ll find thoughtful solutions designed to support your wellbeing at
every stage. For this reason, we invite you to explore our products and
discover how they can accompany you through this transition.