Women's Heart Health: What Every Woman Needs to Know

In this episode of Making Sense of Women's Health, Roberta Bass highlights the critical topic of women’s heart health during National Heart Month in the UK. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death for women in the UK, and it's not just an issue for older women.Roberta explains how hormones like oestrogen play a protective role in heart health, how risks increase after menopause, and why women’s heart attack symptoms often differ from men's—leading to delayed diagnoses. She also covers the connection between perimenopause, menopause, and heart palpitations, along with practical strategies to protect your heart.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for women in the UKThe role of oestrogen in maintaining heart health and what happens after menopauseHow to recognise heart attack symptoms in women that are often missedThe link between heart palpitations, menopause, and hormonal changesOther key heart conditions affecting women, like high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and heart failurePractical ways to improve heart health through exercise, diet, stress management, and sleepKey Takeaways:Move More: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, plus strength training.Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Focus on healthy fats, fibre, omega-3s, and colourful fruits and vegetables.Manage Stress: Incorporate mindfulness, breathing exercises, and activities that help you relax.Prioritise Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep to support heart health.Regular Health Checks: Know your numbers—blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar.Ready to Take Action?Book your next health check.Add more colourful veggies to your plate today.Take a 10-minute walk or practice deep breathing to support your heart.How I Can Help:If you’re struggling with menopause symptoms, joint pain, fatigue, pelvic health issues, or stress that’s holding you back from making healthy changes, I can help.As a Women’s Health Physiotherapist and Menopause Mentor, I provide:Personalised support for managing menopause-related health issuesPhysiotherapy for joint and pelvic healthGuidance on exercise, nutrition, and stress management to improve heart health and overall well-beingVisit Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness to learn more about how we can work together.If you found this episode helpful, subscribe to Making Sense of Women's Health for more expert insights.Send us Fan Mailwww.thriveandshinewomenswellness.co.ukFree Masterclass: Is Perimenopause Causing Your Symptoms? → Click here to watchSupporting women’s health transitions with physiotherapy, menopause mentoring, Pilates and subconscious mindset tools.Follow, subscribe and share the Making Sense of Menopause podcast to help more women access the support they deserve.