Menstrual cycle disorders may be linked to increased cardiovascular disease risk in women (November 2023)

Summary

Two reproductive health conditions common in women, polycystic ovary syndrome and dysmenorrhea, are each associated with increasing cardiovascular disease risk, according to two preliminary studies presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023. 

Content

Research Highlights:

• High blood pressure risk was higher among adolescent girls with a condition associated with irregular menstrual periods called polycystic ovary syndrome, compared to teens without this condition, according to a study of girls between 13-17 years of age.
• In a separate study of women younger than age 50, those with painful menstrual periods had a notably higher risk of heart disease compared with those women without the condition known as dysmenorrhea.
• Researchers of both studies suggest future investigations focus on how these reproductive conditions may impact women’s long-term cardiovascular disease risk.