Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death worldwide in women. Although biological and sociocultural differences compared to men are documented and the pathophysiology, prevalence and course of many cardiovascular diseases differ, there is insufficient evidence for most approaches for women. Women are underrepresented in cardiovascular studies despite the need for gender-sensitive, individualized medicine. In addition, there are women-specific factors that modulate the cardiovascular risk at different stages of life. It is therefore important to adjust risk stratification and care pre- and postmenopausal. Women-specific aspects in the context of cardiovascular diseases should be taken into account in research, guidelines, education and training as well as in the health education of the population.