A new study has found that women with gynecologic conditions such as endometriosis, heavy or irregular periods, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may face a significantly higher risk of heart disease and cerebrovascular conditions, including stroke.
The research, conducted by a team led by Mathew Leonardi, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at McMaster University in Ontario, Canada, systematically reviewed and analyzed data from 28 studies published through April 2024. These studies involved over 3.2 million participants.
Key findings from the study include:
- Women with at least one gynecologic disorder had a 28% higher risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease compared to those without such conditions.
- The risk of ischemic heart disease, caused by narrowed heart arteries, was 41% higher.
- The risk of cerebrovascular disease, which includes stroke, brain aneurysm, brain bleed, and carotid artery disease, was 33% higher.
- Women with PCOS, endometriosis, or both had the highest overall risk.
Endometriosis, which affects up to 1 in 9 U.S. women between the ages of 15 and 44, occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it. PCOS, a hormonal disorder affecting up to 15% of women of reproductive age, can cause irregular menstrual cycles, missed periods, acne, abnormal hair growth, obesity, and infertility. Some women may have both conditions.
While the study did not determine the exact reasons behind the connection, researchers suggest several possible explanations. PCOS and cerebrovascular disease share similar inflammatory pathways and risk factors. Additionally, severe menstrual pain may discourage physical activity, while hormonal imbalances could impact blood vessel function. Treatments such as hormonal therapies or surgeries, including hysterectomy, might also influence long-term cardiovascular health.
Dr. Leonardi emphasized the importance of continued research in this field, while another expert, Dr. Khandelwal, called for increased funding and participation in studies to better understand these links.
“I hope this will serve as a call to action for women to advocate for better research and take steps to control their risk factors for heart and cerebrovascular disease,” said Khandelwal.
