does menopause have a effect on blood pressure

Hi Tracy      Your question, although it seems simple, has a complicated answer.  The simple start is Yes, menopause does have an effect on blood pressure.  Where is gets complicated is that blood pressure is affected by so many different factors, including age, weight, exercise, other disease states, medications and hormone imbalance.  The hormone imbalance is where menopause influences blood pressure.  When your hormone levels begin to fall and the balance changes, it is not unusual to see an increase in blood pressure and adverse changes in your cholesterol levels.  Unfortunately, the common reaction from many in the medical field is to immediately turn to blood pressure and cholesterol medications without considering hormones, nutrition and exercise.  Starting with these last three can make a significant difference in the extent of blood pressure and cholesterol problems and impact how much, or if, you will require medications.  It is very important to find a provider who is knowledgeable about midlife women's health and hormones and who is willing to work with you to chart your path to healthy aging.  Good luck, Sandy