Why does the timing of starting hormone therapy matter for heart health?

The timing of starting hormone therapy (HT) is crucial for heart health because there is what's known as a "window of opportunity" where the benefits for cardiovascular protection are most significant. Here at Alloy, our experts and the latest guidelines highlight that starting HT before age 60 or within 10 years of your last menstrual period is associated with the greatest heart health benefits and the lowest risks.

Here's why timing matters:

Estrogen is cardioprotective: Before menopause, estrogen helps lower cholesterol and reduces inflammation, both of which protect your heart. After menopause, as estrogen levels drop, your risk of heart disease rises to match—and eventually surpass—that of men.
Early initiation is key: Studies show that starting HT early in menopause (within 10 years of your last period or before age 60) can help maintain these protective effects. Starting HT much later (many years after menopause) does not offer the same benefits and may even increase certain risks.
Heart protection: Data suggest that women who begin HT soon after menopause may see a reduction in heart disease risk, while those who start much later do not get this benefit.

For a deeper dive, check out our blog post on Menopause, Hormones & How to Stay Heart-Healthy During Menopause, which features expert insights from cardiologist Dr. Jayne Morgan.

You might also find this YouTube video chapter especially helpful: Timing of Estrogen Therapy and Heart Protection, where Dr. Mary Jane Minkin discusses the importance of starting estrogen therapy early for heart health.

If you're interested in learning more about hormone therapy options, visit our product page to see what we offer at Alloy.

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