Does MHT/HRT cause strokes?
November 10, 2022
By Jennifer Vander Zalm
MYTH
Data about the influence of MHT on stroke are mixed. MHT may increase the incidence of stroke, but this is nullified in women who exercise moderately. A stroke (ischemic stroke) is a clogged blood vessel blocking blood flow to the brain. Without blood flow and oxygen, brain tissue will die. Strokes can lead to serious losses of brain function. Strokes are the third leading cause of death in Canadian women and the risk for stroke increases with age.
The key to reducing the risk of stroke is a healthy lifestyle. The risk factors are:
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol
- Lack of exercise
- Diabetes
- Migraine headaches [with visual aura]
- Too little or too much sleep
Please discuss your personal risks for stroke when discussing MHT with your healthcare provider.
Herstasis Blogs
Welcome to Herstasis Health Blogs. When women ask questions about their experiences with the menopausal transition, we listen! These blogs are full of good content that is relevant, helpful, and always developed with current science-based information.
We invite you to read and enjoy (and learn a few things at the same time)!