Theories/Speculation

• Postmenopausal women do exhibit a higher incidence of hypertension, or high blood pressure, than pre-menopausal women do. One longstanding theory is that hormone therapy, declining hormones and/or other biochemical changes may affect cardiovascular health and, in particular, blood pressure. Another theory has been that women taking hormone replacement therapy during or after menopause experience weight gain, which can lead to higher blood pressure.
  
  

The Facts

• According to a study cited in the "Journal of Hypertension," researchers have found no correlation between hypertension and the stages of menopause. After allowing for age adjustments in studies of women in various stages of fertility and menopause, the study concluded that age--not hormones--may be to blame for hypertension.
  
  

Other Factors

• Since menopause typically occurs later in a woman's life, its timing coincides with other body changes. Among them is weight gain. As a body takes on more pounds, the Body Mass Index, or BMI, also rises, and this can lead to a higher risk of hypertension and other cardiovascular risks. Maintaining a normal weight and a healthy BMI can help ward off high blood pressure.
  
  

Warning

• While high blood pressure can't be cured, it can be controlled. According to the American Heart Association, untreated hypertension can lead to a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, blindness and/or kidney damage. Have your blood pressure checked at least once every six months.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Whether you are pre- or post-menopausal, you can lower your risk of high blood pressure by adopting healthy habits. Exercise on a regular basis. Lower your sodium intake. Keep your weight in a normal range. Lower your alcohol consumption. Don't smoke. Medication can be helpful in controlling high blood pressure, and your healthcare provider can help determine if you will benefit.