Are stroke risks different for women? Experts say yes.

May 23, 2025 - McLaren Greater Lansing

Originally published on May 23, 2025 on LSJ.com
While a stroke can affect anyone, women tend to face higher and more unique risks. With May recognizing both Women’s Health Month and Stroke Awareness Month, it’s crucial to understand these distinctions for stroke risk in women.  

“Biological, hormonal, and life-stage considerations all factor in for women when it comes to their stroke risk compared to men,” said Dr. Jayne Ward, medical director of McLaren Greater Lansing’s Stroke Center who practices general neurology at MSU Clinical Center Department of Neurology. “For example, estrogen in women has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system. However, during menopause, estrogen levels decline significantly, which can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke. It also is associated with changes in blood vessel function and increases blood pressure.”

Pregnancy can also increase the risk of stroke due to increased blood volume, changes in blood clotting mechanisms, and the potential for gestational hypertension or pre-eclampsia.

Other health-related concerns associated with women include increased risk of autoimmune disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, which is more common in women than men, and the use of oral contraceptives that may elevate the risk of a stroke and blood clots.

“It’s important for women to be aware of these risks and speak with their doctor about their concerns and overall health and well-being,” said Dr. Ward. “Luckily strokes can be prevented through routine health screenings.”

Women can adopt several preventative measures including:

• Managing your blood pressure: Hypertension is the leading cause of strokes, so keeping it within normal ranges is crucial (below or within 120/80).
• Controlling diabetes: Proper management of diabetes through diet, exercise, and medication helps mitigate the risks.
• Healthy lifestyle choices: Maintain a well-balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It’s also important to exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.

Recognizing the signs of a stroke quickly is vital for effective treatment. While women may experience different symptoms than men, such as nausea or headache, rather than the classic symptoms like arm weakness or speech difficulties, knowing the acronym BEFAST can help save your life.

• B (balance): Sudden loss of balance or coordination.
• E (eyes): Sudden blurred or double vision, or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• F (fast drooping): One side of the face may droop or feel numb; ask the person to smile.
• A (arm weakness): One arm may be weak or numb; ask them to raise both arms.
• S (speech difficulty): Speech may be slurred or strange; ask them to repeat a simple sentence.
• T (time to call emergency services): If any signs are observed, call emergency services immediately.

Every second counts when it comes to a stroke. McLaren Greater Lansing is here for your with a 24/7 emergency department, a certified primary stroke center, and a level III trauma center. We provide expert care you need when you need it the most.

To learn more about our stroke services, click here.

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