Strokes in women are caused by a mix of traditional vascular risk factors plus some women-specific factors. The most common contributors include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and atrial fibrillation, with pregnancy, migraines, hormonal factors (including birth control and hormone replacement therapy), and smoking adding unique risk for women. Younger women may be affected by pregnancy-related conditions and certain clotting or vascular disorders, while older women share the same general risks as men but live longer, increasing lifetime stroke exposure. Key factors and how they influence risk

• Hypertension (high blood pressure): The leading modifiable risk factor for stroke in both men and women; control improves outcomes.

• Atrial fibrillation and other heart rhythm disorders: Elevate ischemic stroke risk and are particularly impactful in older adults; more common with age.

• Diabetes and high cholesterol: Increase atherosclerotic risk and stroke likelihood in women similarly to men, but prevalence and impact can differ by gender and age.

• Pregnancy-related factors: Hypertensive disorders (preeclampsia, eclampsia), postpartum vascular changes, and overall hemodynamic stress raise stroke risk during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

• Migraine with aura: Linked to higher risk of ischemic stroke in women, especially those who smoke or use estrogens.

• Hormonal contraception and hormone therapy: Combined with smoking or hypertension, markedly increase stroke risk in some women.

• Smoking and obesity: Strongly contribute to stroke risk; obesity also raises risks through associated conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

• Kidney and inflammatory conditions: Certain systemic diseases raise vascular risk and stroke likelihood in women.

Life stages and situational risks

• Reproductive years: Oral contraceptives, migraine, and smoking can combine to raise risk. Pregnancy adds unique risks via hypertensive disorders and vascular changes.

• Menopause and older age: General stroke risk increases with age; vascular changes and comorbidities accumulate over time.

• Sex-specific conditions: Lupus and other autoimmune conditions can elevate stroke risk in women.

What to do about stroke risk

• Monitor and manage blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar with healthcare guidance. Many cases are preventable with lifestyle changes and appropriate meds.

• Discuss personal risk factors with a clinician, especially if planning pregnancy, taking hormonal contraception, or having migraines with aura.

• Recognize warning signs of stroke in women and seek urgent care: sudden weakness or numbness on one side, trouble speaking, vision changes, or severe headache. Immediate evaluation matters most.

If you’d like, provide your age and any specific factors (pregnancy history, migraine with aura, contraceptive use, smoking, existing conditions), and a tailored list of risk-reduction steps you can discuss with a clinician.