Common gynecological disorders linked to higher risks for heart and brain
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- Reviewed by Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor
Women with certain common gynecological disorders face higher risks of heart disease and conditions affecting blood flow to the brain, according to a research review published online Feb. 20, 2025, by the journal Heart.
Scientists examined 28 earlier studies, involving a total of more than 3.2 million women. All assessed the association between gynecological disorders (such as polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, heavy periods, and irregular menstrual cycles) and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. Compared to women without any of these conditions, participants who had at least one of the disorders were 41% more likely to have ischemic heart disease, where the arteries supplying blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked. They were also 33% more likely to have cerebrovascular disease, a group of conditions affecting the brain's blood vessels that can disrupt blood flow.
Women who are dealing with any of these gynecological disorders should talk with their doctor about lifestyle and other approaches to reduce their risks for cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, the study authors said.
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About the Author
Maureen Salamon, Executive Editor, Harvard Women's Health Watch
About the Reviewer
Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor
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