Statins and Women’s Health: What You’re Not Being Told

Statins and Women’s Health: An Honest Conversation

You might think you’re not at risk of a heart attack or stroke — especially if you eat well, move your body, and live a relatively healthy lifestyle. But the reality is, 1 in 4 deaths in Australia (25%!) are caused by cardiovascular events. That’s significant.

No matter your gender, weight, diet, or exercise routine, it’s worth taking a good look at your cardiovascular health. Genetics play a major role, and heart events can catch even seemingly healthy people off guard.

A thorough approach matters. At minimum, I recommend:

  • A comprehensive cardiovascular pathology panel

  • Reviewing your family history

  • Regularly monitoring your blood pressure

One area I often discuss with clients is statin therapy — a class of cholesterol-lowering medications. Statins are commonly prescribed, especially to those over 50, yet they remain a controversial topic amongst medical experts. And for good reason.

In fact, 48% of Australian adults over 75 are on statins. That number alone is worth pausing over.

Let’s unpack the conversation — especially as it relates to women’s health.

The Impact of Statins on Women

In clinic, I’ve seen many women experience symptoms shortly after starting statins — things like:

  • Fatigue

  • Low mood and irritability

  • Muscle aches or weakness

  • Digestive discomfort

These are more than just coincidences. They reflect the wider, downstream effects of how statins work in the body — especially in post-menopausal women, where statin use is associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Of course, in some cases statins are necessary. Cardiovascular events are a very real threat. But it’s worth understanding the bigger picture.

Statins and Heart Attack Risk

Statins do reduce cholesterol levels — but we have to ask: at what cost?

While they may offer modest protection against heart attacks, some studies suggest the reduction in risk is not as substantial as we’re led to believe. And worryingly, one of the side effects of statins is actually heart failure. Yes — a medication designed to protect your heart could potentially harm it.

That’s not something we can ignore.

The Ripple Effect: What Else Do Statins Change?

Statins block a liver enzyme (HMG-CoA reductase) that plays a key role in cholesterol production. But this same pathway is also responsible for making:

  • Hormones: testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, aldosterone, and DHEA

  • Vitamin D: essential for immunity, mood, metabolism, and more

  • CoQ10: a powerful antioxidant crucial for energy and heart health

When we block this pathway, we impact all of these systems. Low levels of these substances can lead to a whole host of side effects, including mood changes, muscle pain, hormone imbalances, and fatigue.

If statins are prescribed, CoQ10 (or ubiquinol) should always be considered alongside to replenish what’s lost. Sadly, this is often overlooked.

Digestion and Statins

Statins may also impair bile acid production, which is essential for fat digestion and the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients like vitamins A, D, E, and K. This can contribute to digestive issues — something I regularly see in practice.

Mental Health Concerns

As someone who’s deeply passionate about mental wellbeing, I find the emerging research around statins and cognitive or emotional side effects deeply concerning.

There are case studies linking statin use to:

  • Depression

  • Anxiety

  • Irritability or aggression

  • Memory loss

  • Even suicidal thoughts or behaviours

While some larger studies dismiss these effects, others show clear correlations. Some researchers also suggest a higher risk of cognitive decline and Parkinson’s disease with long-term statin use. In my view, conflicting evidence should spark caution — not dismissal.

Statins in Older Adults

Here’s another eye-opener: 48% of Australian adults over 75 are taking statins, yet there’s no strong evidence that statins reduce heart attacks or extend life in people over 69.

In fact:

We need to question the blanket prescribing of statins in this age group — especially without regular review of symptoms, outcomes, and risk-benefit analysis.

Personalised Care and Informed Choice

This isn’t about being “anti-medicine.” It’s about being pro-information and pro-choice.

Sometimes statins are appropriate — especially in high-risk cases. But every individual deserves a personalised approach.

Clients should:

  • Understand both the potential benefits and risks of statins

  • Have access to natural and dietary strategies for cardiovascular support

  • Be regularly monitored for new symptoms after starting medication

  • Be given the opportunity to reduce or stop statins if their health improves through lifestyle

Too often, people feel disempowered or brushed off when they question a statin prescription — especially if they start experiencing unusual side effects. That needs to change.

Natural Ways to Support Cardiovascular Health

There are many natural strategies to support cholesterol balance and heart health, such as:

  • Dietary fibre from whole foods

  • Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flax

  • Antioxidants from colourful fruits and vegetables

  • Stress reduction techniques

  • Regular movement and strength training

  • Herbs and nutrients (like garlic, bergamot, red yeast rice — under supervision)

These options don’t work overnight, and they require commitment — but they’re powerful. They support the whole body, not just a single lab marker.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Open

Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in Australia, yet many people don’t fully understand how they work or what risks may be involved. That needs to change.

If you’re taking statins and feel “off” — or if you’re wondering whether they’re right for you — let’s have a conversation. You deserve to feel informed, heard, and supported.

This isn’t about fear. It’s about clarity, individualised care, and empowerment.

Want support with cholesterol or heart health?

Let’s look at the full picture — your bloodwork, family history, lifestyle, and symptoms — and create a personalised, realistic plan that makes sense for you.

AUTHOR: TALITHA

I specialise in gut health (IBS, IBD, microbiome testing), women's health (preconception, fertility, hormone balance), and mental health (depression, stress, anxiety). I am a degree- qualified naturopath who LOVES helping people transform their health stories!!

Previous
Previous

You, Me, and the Pill: Let’s Talk Honestly

Next
Next

Navigating Menopause Naturally