Lipoprotein(a) & Menopause: The Hidden Heart Risk Marker

Could your cholesterol and heart disease risk be changing during menopause without you realizing it? Have you been told hormone therapy protects your heart, but wondered what the research actually says? In this episode, Dr. Polly Watson is joined by integrative cardiologist Dr. Regina Druz to unpack the complicated relationship between lipoprotein(a), menopause, cardiovascular disease risk, and hormone therapy in women. Together, they explain what current research shows about genetics, inflammation, cholesterol markers, and emerging treatment options so women can make more informed decisions about their long-term health. 🌸 Lipoprotein(a), also called Lp(a), is a largely genetic cholesterol particle linked to higher cardiovascular disease risk. 🌸 Women can experience spikes in Lp(a) during pregnancy and menopause, which may affect long-term heart health. 🌸 Oral estrogen may lower Lp(a) levels, but it can also increase inflammation and blood clot risk. 🌸 Transdermal hormone therapy appears safer for cardiovascular risk, but research is still evolving. 🌸 Exercise, sleep, nutrition, and muscle health remain some of the most important tools for protecting heart health during midlife. 🌸 Advanced testing like ApoB, coronary calcium scores, and genetic risk assessments may help personalize prevention strategies. 🌸 New treatments like PCSK9 inhibitors and future gene-editing therapies may change how elevated Lp(a) is managed in the coming years. If you’ve been confused by mixed messages around cholesterol, menopause, and hormone therapy, this episode offers a more balanced and evidence-informed perspective. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of what we know, what we still don’t know, and practical ways to support your long-term cardiovascular health. 📘 Try our 10-minute new patient intro course: https://hormonewellnessmdacademy.teachable.com/p/are-we-a-good-fit-new-patient-welcome-course 🩺 Looking for Personalized Hormone Care in North Carolina or Alabama? Hormone Wellness MD provides expert, evidence-based hormone care for women across North Carolina and Alabama. We care for patients in Raleigh, Charlotte, Wilmington, Chapel Hill, Durham, Greensboro, and Birmingham. If you’re ready for expert care rooted in evidence and empathy, we’d love to support you. Website: https://hormonewellnessmd.com Email: [email protected] Call: (919) 364-3430 📲 Follow Hormone Wellness MD: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hormonewellnessmd Podcast: https://hormonewellnessmd.com/podcast