The Effects of Previous Amenorrhea on Endothelial and Vascular Function

Introduction: Endogenous estrogen has a protective cardiovascular effect. Estrogen loss, such as during menopause and amenorrhea, results in stiffer vessels and endothelial dysfunction. It is unknown if reversing amenorrhea and regaining a regular menstrual cycle leads to the restoration of cardiovascular function. Methods: Sixteen women were divided into groups: eumenorrheic (n = 10; 23 ± 3 years) women who had a consistent menstrual cycle and amenorrheic (n = 6; 22 ± 1 year) women who previously were without their menstrual cycle for at least 6 consecutive months. Endothelial function, arterial stiffness, and brachial and aortic blood pressure were assessed. Results: There were no differences between groups in endothelial function or arterial stiffness measures. The previously amenorrheic group displayed lower brachial systolic and mean pressures and aortic systolic, diastolic, and mean pressures. When controlling for physical activity, only central pressure remained significantly lower in the amenorrheic group. Conclusions: Previous amenorrhea in young women does not result in long-term cardiovascular consequences in arterial and endothelial function measures assuming regular menstruation resumes. Physical activity shows a blood pressure-lowering effect in the peripheral arteries, while the previously amenorrheic group demonstrated lower central pressures, independent of physical activity.