Hearts & Private Parts: The Truth About Hormones and Your Cardiovascular Health

When we think about hormones, our minds often go straight to mood swings, hot flashes, or maybe even a dip in libido. But did you know that your hormones and your heart health are deeply intertwined? At Young Wellness Center, our doctors have   spent years helping patients understand the critical connection between these two vital systems—and how to keep both in top shape. Dr. Young is often heard saying “hearts and private parts are related not just in the bedroom but in your body too!” 

If you’re wondering how your hormonal health might be affecting your cardiovascular system, you’re in the right place. This guide will take you through the relationship between your hormones and your heart health, common misconceptions, and what you can do to support both for the long haul. 

Take control of your heart and hormonal health—schedule your complimentary consultation with Young Naturopathic Center For Wellness today!

Hormones and Heart Health: What’s the Connection? 

It might surprise you to learn just how much your hormones impact your cardiovascular health. Hormones like estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone play a significant role in maintaining blood vessel elasticity and regulating blood pressure. 

“Hormonal decline results in people having less elasticity in their blood vessels,” explains Dr. Young. “They don’t move as easily, they become harder, they become stiffer. Keeping up with our hormonal health can often keep a more youthful cardiovascular system.” 

When hormone levels drop—whether due to aging, stress, or other health conditions—your heart can feel the effects. Blood vessels may lose their flexibility, making it harder for blood to flow smoothly. This can increase the risk of coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, and other cardiovascular concerns. 

The Hormonal Rollercoaster: Andropause and Menopause 

Hormonal changes aren’t just a women’s issue. While menopause typically affects women around their 40s or 50s, men experience hormonal shifts too—what Dr. Young affectionately calls “man-O-pause ,” or andropause. 

During these phases, levels of key hormones decline. In women, estrogen, progesterone  and testosterone plummet. In men, testosterone  decreases at varing rates while estrogen goes up.  In both men and women growth hormones decline and blood sugar regulation gets harder. These shifts don’t just affect mood and energy—they directly influence cardiovascular health. 

“I tell my patients, ‘Touch the tip of your nose.’ That’s what your blood vessels feel like before menopause or andropause,” Dr. Young shares. “Afterward? Think of your earlobe. Things start to sag—sagging is not just on the outside of the body, but inside too.” 

Reduced hormone levels can lead to increased stiffness in blood vessels or coronary artery disease, higher cholesterol levels, and changes in fat distribution—all of which add up to greater cardiovascular risk. 

Debunking the Hormone-Cancer Myth 

One of the biggest fears surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the risk of cancer. Many people still remember the alarm bells that rang out in the early 2000s when hormone therapy was linked to increased cancer risks. 

“It all started  July of 2002 when Oprah through O magazine and her TV show informed women they could be at risk of cancer and other serious health issues based on the WHI studies showing hormones increased risk of disease.   g ” Dr. Young recalls. “At the time, it seemed reasonable, but we’ve learned a lot since then.”  New studies have even shown that testosterone pellets can reduce your risk of cancer by 35%.   

Today, research is better at informing patients of all of the risks and benefits of HRT.    For most people, properly monitored HRT does not increase the risk of cancer. In fact, Dr. Young points out that maintaining hormonal balance can actually improve cardiovascular outcomes. Interestingly, many doctors still claim testing for hormones is not necessary – at YNC we disagree.  Testing to ensure that your heart is doing well and your hormones are not over the top is something we recommend every 6 months for our patients.   

While there are specific risks for women—such as unopposed estrogen increasing the chance of uterine hyperplasia (aka uterine cancer)—the sweeping claims about hormone therapy and cancer have largely been debunked by current medical evidence.  Any responsible person prescribing HRT will check labs and imaging regularly to prevent this risk.    

Why the Confusion? The Importance of Hormone Testing 

A major reason for the conflicting information is the lack of personalized care. Not all hormone therapy is created equal, and a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. 

“Quantity is important,” says Dr. Young. “I know some doctors who never test hormone levels, but we have reference ranges for a reason. Our job as doctors isn’t to make emotional decisions—it’s to give you the facts and help you navigate your health.” 

At Young Naturopathic Center for Wellness, hormone therapy begins with thorough testing. This includes: 

• Comprehensive hormone panels to identify deficiencies or imbalances. 

• Inflammatory markers to assess cardiovascular risk. 

• Genetic screening to identify predispositions to heart disease or stroke. 

By evaluating these factors, Dr. Young and her team tailor hormone therapy plans to meet each patient’s unique needs and minimize potential risks. 

The Role of Lifestyle in Hormonal and Heart Health 

While hormone therapy can play a key role in maintaining cardiovascular health, lifestyle choices cannot be overlooked. A holistic approach combining medical treatment with healthy habits offers the best results. 

“True change stems from strategically making changes that you can stick with, one at a time,” Dr. Young emphasizes. “We don’t just give you hormones and send you on your way. We partner with you to create a comprehensive plan including nutrients, herbs, IV therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and peptides to ensure heart health wellness. 

Key lifestyle habits to support hormonal and heart health include: 

• Balanced Nutrition: Focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods like vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.  Better yet click her and learn about VO2Max testing to know your specific needs (BACK LINK)  

• Regular Exercise: Incorporate both cardiovascular activities (like walking or swimming) and strength training to maintain muscle mass and metabolic health. Pro Tip- you can get your specific plan from VO2Max Testing)  BACK LINK 

• Stress Management: Practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or yoga to reduce the impact of stress hormones like cortisol. 

• Quality Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep each night to support hormone regulation and cardiovascular function. 

The Science of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) 

One promising avenue for addressing hormonal imbalances is bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT). Unlike synthetic hormones, bioidentical hormones are near identical to those your body naturally produces. The Cleveland Clinic states these hormones come from plants, with estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone being the most commonly used bioidentical hormones. This means they are often better tolerated and associated with fewer side effects. 

Dr. Young explains, “Bioidentical hormones allow us to provide the body with exactly what it needs. By customizing dosages based on thorough testing, we can restore balance while minimizing risks.” 

BHRT can be especially beneficial for those experiencing: 

• Persistent fatigue and low energy levels 

• Mood swings and irritability 

• Sleep disturbances 

• Declining libido 

• Increased cardiovascular risk 

• Weight increase 

• Muscle decline  

By addressing hormonal deficiencies early, BHRT may help protect heart health and improve overall well-being. 

Who Should Consider Hormone Therapy? 

If you’re experiencing symptoms like fatigue, low libido, mood swings, or unexplained weight gain, your hormones might be the culprit. Hormone therapy isn’t just about feeling better—it can play a crucial role in preventing long-term cardiovascular issues. 

Ideal candidates for hormone therapy typically: 

• Are experiencing peri-menopausal or andropausal symptoms. 

• Have been diagnosed with hormone imbalances. 

• Are at increased risk for cardiovascular disease. 

• Want to proactively maintain heart and overall health. 

A comprehensive consultation with one of our  doctors can help determine if hormone therapy is right for you. We will identify any underlying health concerns that should be addressed and provide you with a treatment plan to best suit your needs 

Take Control of Your Hormonal and Heart Health 

Your heart and your hormones are inextricably linked. When one system falters, the other often follows. The good news? You have the power to take control of both. 

At Young Wellness Center, we combine cutting-edge hormone therapies with personalized care to help you thrive—inside and out. With the right balance of medical insight and lifestyle adjustments, you can protect your heart, restore hormonal balance, and feel like yourself again. 

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a complimentary consultation today with Young Naturopathic Center For Wellness and discover how optimizing your hormonal health can support your heart for years to come.