Cardiovascular risk during menopause: gynecologist and cardiologist view

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease continues to be the main cause of death in the world. Women present a protective factor against it during the reproductive age due to the effect of estrogens on the vascular endothelium typical of this stage of life; later, perimenopause and post-menopause give rise to hypoestrogenemia states that generate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and death from this cause. Hormone replacement therapy is a fundamental pillar for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms in menopause, it also has a positive impact on other outcomes such as cardiovascular risk, bone protection, depression, among other pathologies. We present a compendium of concepts regarding menopause and cardiovascular risk; historical aspects and treatment measures based on hormone replacement therapy.