The impact of exercise on cardiovascular parameters in postmenopausal women: A narrative review

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Several studies indicate that regular physical activity can reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure, improve endothelial function, and enhance overall cardiovascular fitness in postmenopausal women. To gain a deeper understanding, we conducted a narrative review of systematic reviews to assess the impact of exercise on cardiovascular parameters in postmenopausal women. METHOD: The literature search was conducted using the Excerpta Medica, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. We included systematic reviews investigating the effects of exercise on cardiovascular parameters in postmenopausal women, with publications considered up until December 2024. RESULTS: Following the exclusion of 187 publications, three systematic reviews were selected. These reported significant exercise-induced improvements in vasomotor symptoms, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and heart rate. CONCLUSION: This narrative review revealed that exercise benefits cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women. Still, methodological limitations emphasize the need for better systematic reviews. Clinicians ought to interpret findings carefully when recommending physical exercise.