Early Menopause and Heart Disease Link

Premature menopause can be a predictor of heart disease.

Women who reach menopause before they are 40 years old have as much as a 40% increased risk of developing coronary heart disease. That's compared with women who don't go through the transition early.

According to Teresa Hoffman, M.D., an OB/GYN with Hoffman and Associates, an all-female OB/GYN doctor group affiliated with Mercy, it is important for women to be screened and managed appropriately.

Cardiologists, primary care doctors and OB/GYNs need to coordinate care.

"Conversation to have one with your OB/GYN doctor because early menopause, in addition to cardiac stuff, which is very concerning, also puts you at risk for osteoporosis, early issues with your brain and dementia. It's a conversation to consider estrogen therapy," Dr. Hoffman said.

In addition, Dr. Hoffman noted that prematurely menopausal women with any cardiac history or other risk factors like diabetes, hypertension or obesity should see a cardiologist and be evaluated.

To view Mercy OB/GYN Dr. Teresa (Terry) Hoffman’s interview regarding early menopause and heart disease in women, click here.