Menopause

Menopause marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is associated with a decline in estrogen levels. This hormonal change can increase the risk of heart disease by affecting cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and the elasticity of blood vessels. Women going through menopause are more susceptible to developing cardiovascular issues.

Maintaining heart health during menopause involves adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle, which includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, stress management, and routine health check-ups to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.

Common Questions about Menopause

What is Systole Health?

Systole Health is a group-based virtual care service that helps women improve their heart and metabolic health. We offer medical care and coaching, making it easier for you to manage conditions like high blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and heart disease.

How does group virtual care work?

Group virtual care involves up to 8 patients meeting virtually with a physician and certified health coach. These sessions focus on education, peer support, and personalized care to help you manage your health. You'll benefit from expert guidance and shared experiences with others going through similar challenges. Between sessions, you will have access to your care team and group through a secure app and platform that allows for group messaging, goal setting, and health data monitoring.

What conditions does Systole Health treat?

We specialize in managing cardiometabolic conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. Additionally, we help patients optimize their heart health after experiencing events like a heart attack or heart failure.

What is cardiometabolic health?

Cardiometabolic health refers to the interconnection between heart health, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and excess weight. These factors are all linked, and managing them together is key to preventing heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health issues.

How long does the program last?

Our core program lasts 6 weeks, with an option for bimonthly maintenance afterward to continue supporting your long-term health goals.

How does menopause affect heart health?

The hormonal changes during menopause, particularly the drop in estrogen levels, can increase the risk of heart disease by affecting cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and the elasticity of blood vessels.

What are the risks of heart disease after menopause?

After menopause, the risk of heart disease increases due to hormonal shifts, weight gain, and changes in cholesterol and blood pressure.

How can I maintain heart health during menopause?

Maintaining heart health involves regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet, quitting smoking, managing stress, and monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

What lifestyle changes can support heart health in menopausal women?

Lifestyle changes like adopting a Mediterranean diet, staying physically active, avoiding processed foods, and reducing stress can support heart health during menopause.

Are there specific diets recommended for heart health during menopause?

Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, such as the Mediterranean diet, are recommended to protect heart health during and after menopause.