High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy, Menopausal Symptoms, and Risk of Heart Disease

A video overview of a new study showing a connection between hypertension during pregnancy and menopausal symptoms, both indicators of a higher risk of heart disease. More research is needed to determine whether there is a direct correlation between high blood pressure during pregnancy and menopausal symptoms and whether hormone replacement therapy can affect heart disease risk.

A study recently conducted at Mayo Clinic found that women who had high blood pressure during pregnancy were more likely to experience bothersome menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy and hot flashes are both linked to heart disease risk.

SOURCE: Mayo Clinic • AUTHOR: Stephanie Faubion • LAST UPDATED: August 20, 2020