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Menopause and Its Implications for Stroke in Women
Rebecca C Thurston1,2,3, Jocelyn M Spicuzza1, Rachel A Schroeder1
1Department of Psychiatry (R.C.T., J.M.S., R.A.S.), University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA.
Stroke
|June 24, 2026
Summary
Menopause significantly impacts women's stroke risk, influenced by its timing, symptoms, and hormone therapy. Understanding these factors is crucial for women's cardiovascular health and stroke prevention.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Women's Health
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability in women.
- Menopause involves hormonal changes and symptoms impacting midlife women.
- Menopause characteristics are increasingly linked to stroke risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between menopause and stroke risk in women.
- To explore how menopausal factors influence stroke.
- To provide clinical decision-making guidance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on menopause and stroke.
- Analysis of factors like menopause timing, symptoms, and hormone profiles.
- Evaluation of menopausal hormone therapy's stroke implications.
Main Results:
- Menopause type, timing, symptoms (vasomotor, sleep issues), and hormone profiles affect stroke risk.
- Menopausal hormone therapy's stroke risk varies by formulation, delivery, and patient factors.
- Transdermal therapy in younger women shows a favorable stroke profile.
Conclusions:
- Menopause is a critical factor in women's stroke risk.
- Clinical decisions regarding menopause management should consider stroke risk.
- Further research is needed to fill knowledge gaps in menopause and stroke.
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