You’re said to have completed menopause when it’s been a full calendar year since your last menstrual period. We define this part of your life in terms of how it relates to the end of your reproductive years.
But menopause affects your health at an even deeper level. Did you know that entering menopause increases your risk of bone density loss and osteoporosis?
At Longoria OBGYN in El Paso, Texas, Dr. Leonardo Longoria and our team provide comprehensive menopause support. This May, we recognize National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month by giving you more information about the connection between this change in your life and your rising risk of osteoporosis.
The causes of osteoporosis aren’t known, but we do know a lot about the conditions under which this disease typically develops.
Age and hormones both make a difference in your bone strength. After menopause, you also have a higher risk of fractures and osteopenia, or low bone mineral density.
Your bone density increases in the first 30 years of your life, strengthening your skeleton as you reach maturity. In women, the hormonal changes of early menopause or perimenopause start to negatively affect bone health in your late 30s or 40s.
In the first five years after you start menopause, you may experience up to 20% of your total bone loss. Women over the age of 50 have the highest osteoporosis risk level.
You might think you would notice your bones growing weaker. However, many osteoporosis patients don’t realize anything is wrong until a bone breaks unexpectedly. At that point, the condition has progressed and become more serious. You may also notice that you stoop or are losing height, both signs of osteoporosis.
Once you develop osteoporosis, your bones weaken, losing strength and density. Your risk of broken bones goes up, making it more likely that you’ll suffer fractures if you fall or experience an accident. The cycle of breaking a bone, recovering, and falling again can become difficult to escape as you get older.
Bone mineral density testing can help us learn more about your current bone health and better target your preventive treatment. Dr. Longoria also asks about your family health history to help evaluate your bone health risks.
Changing your diet and exercise regimen earlier in life makes a big difference in maintaining strong bones during your golden years. As an adult, you should exercise at least 3-4 times a week. Weight-bearing exercises give your bones the most benefit. Balance exercises also make you less likely to fall and risk fractures.
Bisphosphonate medications can prevent or treat osteoporosis. Estrogen hormone replacement therapy may help lower your risk of bone loss and osteoporosis, as well as alleviate uncomfortable symptoms associated with menopause, like hot flashes or night sweats. Post-menopausal women may need calcium supplements in addition to dietary calcium.
It’s important to seek expert care and advice as you go through menopause. Dr. Longoria monitors your health as your body transitions, ensuring you stay standing strong as you get older.
For menopause and bone health support, contact our team at Longoria OBGYN to schedule a consultation today. Book an appointment by calling our office or scheduling online.
