February Edition of the Peach Corps Newsletter

American Heart Month: Prioritize Heart Health for Women with Endometriosis, PCOS, and Adenomyosis

Welcome to American Heart Month! As we celebrate heart health this February, it’s important to recognize how chronic gynecological conditions, such as Endometriosis, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and Adenomyosis, can impact your heart health. At Peach Corp, we’re committed to raising awareness about the connection between these conditions and cardiovascular well-being.

Heart Health & Chronic Gynecological Conditions: What You Should Know

Research has shown that women with endometriosis, PCOS, or adenomyosis face a higher risk of developing heart-related issues, making it crucial to understand the intersection between reproductive health and cardiovascular well-being.

Endometriosis and Heart Health

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. This condition is often associated with inflammation and immune system dysregulation, which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease(Mu et al., 2016).

What You Can Do:

• Manage Inflammation: Addressing the underlying inflammation associated with endometriosis can have positive effects on heart health. Talk to your healthcare provider about lifestyle changes and medications that can help reduce inflammation.
• Regular Check-Ups: Since endometriosis can increase the risk of other health issues, including cardiovascular problems, regular screenings for heart health are essential.

PCOS and Heart Disease Risk

‍Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods, weight gain, and an increased risk of metabolic disorders like diabetes. Women with PCOS are also at an elevated risk for heart disease due to higher levels of insulin resistance and cholesterol imbalances.

‍What You Can Do:

• Monitor Your Health: Regularly check blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Managing PCOS through weight management, diet, and exercise can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Consult with Your Doctor: Ask your healthcare provider about strategies to balance hormones, regulate insulin, and support cardiovascular health.

Adenomyosis and Heart Health

‍Adenomyosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows within the uterine wall, leading to heavy and painful periods. Like endometriosis, adenomyosis is often associated with inflammation, which may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.

‍What You Can Do:

• Keep Your Heart Healthy: Incorporate heart-healthy habits, such as a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and stress management, to reduce inflammation and improve overall cardiovascular health.
• Get Screened: Make sure you keep up with screenings and regular check-ups to monitor both reproductive and heart health.

How You Can Get Involved

1. Stay Proactive with Your Health: Make an appointment to discuss heart health with your healthcare provider. Regular cardiovascular screenings are essential for those with chronic gynecological conditions.
2. Spread the Word: Share information about the connection between reproductive health and heart health with friends, family, and coworkers.
3. Donate to Peach Corp: Your support helps us continue providing vital workshops, support groups, and resources for women affected by endometriosis, PCOS, and adenomyosis.
   Donate here or visit our website for more information.

Peach Corp: Empowering Women for Heart Health

‍This American Heart Month, we encourage you to prioritize heart health—especially if you're living with endometriosis, PCOS, or adenomyosis. With the right care, lifestyle adjustments, and support, we can all take steps to protect both our reproductive health and cardiovascular well-being.

Together, we can make a difference by raising awareness and supporting women’s health in all aspects.

Thank you for your continued support, and here’s to a healthy heart this month and beyond!

Mu F, Rich-Edwards J, Rimm EB, Spiegelman D, Missmer SA. Endometriosis and Risk of Coronary Heart Disease. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes. 2016 May;9(3):257-64. doi: 10.1161/CIRCOUTCOMES.115.002224. Epub 2016 Mar 29. PMID: 27025928; PMCID: PMC4940126.

https://www.escardio.org/The-ESC/Press-Office/Press-releases/Women-with-endometriosis-at-greater-associated-risk-of-heart-attack-and-stroke#:~:text=Women%20with%20endometriosis%20at%20greater%20associated%20risk%20of%20

Warm regards,
Dr.Appiah Theresa Catherine
Peach Corp