Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy and Vascular Health
Pregnancy introduces dramatic hormonal fluctuations, particularly with an increase in estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help the body support the growing fetus, but they also cause blood vessels to expand and increase blood flow.
This can lead to lower blood pressure, which may feel like dizziness or fatigue. However, for some women, it can also contribute to pregnancy-related vascular conditions, such as varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
How Menopause Impacts Vascular Health
Menopause is another life stage where hormonal changes are important in vascular health. Lower estrogen levels during menopause may raise the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Estrogen helps protect blood vessels by keeping them flexible and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. With lower estrogen, women may experience higher blood pressure, increased cholesterol, and stiffer arteries, which elevate the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Maintaining Vascular Health Through Hormonal Changes
While hormonal changes are inevitable, there are several ways to maintain vascular health. A heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking are key lifestyle factors that can support your cardiovascular system.
For women going through menopause, discussing hormone replacement therapy (HRT) with your healthcare provider may help manage some of the vascular effects linked to estrogen decline.
Regular vascular check-ups are also recommended, especially if you have risk factors for heart disease.
Schedule a Vascular Health Consultation in Virginia
If you’re concerned about how hormonal changes may be affecting your vascular health, the experts at the Vascular Institute of Virginia can help.
Contact us today at 703-763-5224 to schedule a consultation at our Fredericksburg, Woodbridge, or Fairfax, VA locations. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized plan for maintaining your vascular health.
