Cholesterol & the menopause

Menopause is when the ovaries stop producing the hormone oestrogen and periods stop. Because of the change in hormones, some women gain weight and cholesterol levels rise.

• LDL cholesterol can rise.
• HDL cholesterol often rises.
• The balance of HDL cholesterol to non-HDL cholesterol may become less healthy.

The rise in cholesterol means women have a higher risk of heart attacks and other disease of the heart and blood vessels after menopause than before, so it’s important to get blood fats and any other health problems under control. You can also speak to your GP or a menopause specialist during the lead up to the menopause (known as perimenopause) or after the menopause.