The impact of female hormones on cardiovascular risk is a hot issue. Many nurses working in the NHS, including in general practice, are aged 50 or older. This means that there is a strong possibility that some of us may be experiencing menopausal symptoms, along with our patients. In this article, we look at the use of hormonal therapies at the time of the menopause, with particular reference to cardiovascular risk. We will also touch on the use of oral contraception and associated cardiovascular factors.