3. Women have lower blood pressure than men throughout their lives.

Women tend to have lower blood pressure than men in early adult life. But when they get older, their blood pressure readings are similar to those of men. Experts think female hormones, especially estrogen, may help keep blood pressure low until a woman reaches menopause.

This doesn't mean that young women can't get high blood pressure. It can happen at any age. If a woman has high blood pressure when she becomes pregnant, she is at high risk for developing pre-eclampsia, a serious condition. With proper care, most women with hypertension or pre-eclampsia can deliver healthy babies.