Cardiovascular responses of women to lower body negative pressure

Lower body negative pressure (LBNP) has provided a method for studying cardiovascular responses in men while simulating a return to the stresses of 1-G following space flight. In this study, we have monitored responses of women to the stresses provided by LBNP. There were 20 women, 23-43 years, each tested in the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. Variables were recorded during supine control; at -30, -40, -50 mm Hg LBNP; immediately after pressure release; and after 5 min recovery. There were no significant differences in response to LBNP between the two menstrual phases. During LBNP calf circumference was enlarged; transthoracic impedance was increased; stroke volume, left ventricular ejection time, the Heather Index of contractility and systolic pressure were reduced; total peripheral resistance was elevated; and cardiac output fell despite a rise in heart rate. Differences in cardiovascular variables between 0 mm Hg LBNP and -50 mm Hg LBNP were generally similar to reported differences between supine and standing. The responses of these women to LBNP were qualitatively similar to those reported for the Apollo astronauts and other male subjects. These women appeared to compensate with a greater heart rate response; however, the net cardiovascular compensation as determined from arterial pressure appears to be similar in men and women.