Did you know that February isn't just about Valentine's Day and chocolates? It's also Heart Health Awareness Month – a time to shine a spotlight on the importance of cardiovascular wellness. Despite its prevalence, heart disease often flies under the radar, overshadowed by other health concerns. But here's the thing – women are just as susceptible to heart disease as men, if not more so! That's why raising awareness about heart health and taking proactive steps to prevent heart disease is crucial. 

While traditional risk factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking apply to both sexes, women also face unique risk factors such as hormonal changes, pregnancy complications, and autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, women may present with different symptoms of heart disease than men, making diagnosis and treatment more challenging. 

What does heart health have to do with infertility? 

You may be asking, what does heart health have to do with infertility? It turns out, probably more than we think. A lot of research over the past few years has shown how your fertility status could be used as a marker for future health.  

Recently, a study published in January 2024 in JAMA revealed compelling evidence suggesting that women who have experienced infertility may be at a higher risk of cardiovascular issues later in life. This study found that women who had experienced infertility tended to have lower scores on measures of heart health compared to those who hadn't. They were especially lower in things like BMI, blood pressure, and blood biomarkers such as cholesterol. While the link with lifestyle factors wasn't super clear, this research is still pretty eye-opening. 

What is the correlation? 

The intricacies of how infertility intertwines with cardiovascular health are still not completely understood. However, several hypotheses have been proposed. One possibility is that both infertility and cardiovascular disease share common risk factors, such as obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation. Additionally, the stress associated with infertility and its treatment may also contribute to cardiovascular risk. It is also well known that hormonal imbalances can also influence cardiovascular health. For instance, conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), characterized by hormonal dysregulation and infertility, have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.  

Implications for Women's Health 

So, what does all this mean for you? Well, if you've struggled with infertility, it's worth keeping an eye on your heart health. By understanding your unique risk factors and recognizing the signs of heart disease, you can take proactive steps to protect your heart. Additionally, although it is difficult to talk about, sharing your fertility journey with healthcare providers is an important part of your medical history that they need to know about. This will help them better understand your future risks and helps your healthcare provider develop a proactive health management plan to lower your risk of developing medical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, in the future. 

How can I lower my cardiovascular risk? 

There are powerful steps you can take now to boost your heart health. Small changes can add up to big benefits for our hearts and the great thing is that many of these recommendations also have been shown to have a positive impact on your fertility. 

1. Know Your Numbers: It's essential to be aware of key indicators of heart health, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar. These numbers can provide valuable insights into your cardiovascular well-being and serve as a baseline for monitoring changes over time. Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to stay informed and proactive about managing these vital metrics. 
2. Nourish Your Body: A balanced diet plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy heart. Opt for a colorful array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to fuel your body with essential nutrients. Aim to limit intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive sodium, which can contribute to elevated blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Remember, small dietary changes can yield significant benefits for your heart in the long run! 
3. Stay Active: Get your body moving and grooving with regular physical activity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week, as recommended by health guidelines. Whether it's brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing – find activities you enjoy and make them a regular part of your routine. Exercise not only strengthens your heart and muscles but also boosts mood and reduces stress. 
4. Manage Stress: Finding healthy ways to manage it is essential for heart health. Chronic stress can take a toll on your cardiovascular system, so prioritize self-care practices that promote relaxation and balance. Whether it's meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature, carve out moments of peace and tranquility amidst life's hustle and bustle.  
5. Prioritize Sleep: Quality sleep is another cornerstone of heart health that often gets overlooked. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep per night to allow your body to recharge and repair. Create a soothing bedtime routine, limit screen time before bed, and ensure your sleep environment is cool, dark, and comfortable. 
6. Ditch Bad Habits: Say goodbye to smoking and limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels, as both can significantly increase your risk of heart disease. If you need support in breaking free from these habits, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider or lean on your support system. 

The connection between women's heart health and infertility is definitely something worth talking about. By understanding how these two things are linked, we can take better care of ourselves and our hearts. As we celebrate Heart Health Awareness Month this February, let's keep the conversation going and make sure every woman gets the support she needs to stay healthy.