Menopause and your risk of osteoporosis
Each year, two important health awareness days fall just days apart – World Menopause Day on 18 October and World Osteoporosis Day on 20 October. These events highlight two significant aspects of women’s health which are often interrelated.
Osteoporosis is a condition affecting bone health that affects around 22% women aged over 50, after menopause. According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation, approximately 1 in 3 women over the age of 50 will suffer from osteoporotic fractures, highlighting the importance of early prevention and treatment.
The link between menopause and osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is characterised by a reduction in bone density, which leads to weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures. For women, the risk of osteoporosis increases significantly after menopause due to the decrease in oestrogen, a hormone that plays a vital role in maintaining bone density.
Studies have shown that women who go through early menopause are at greater risk of osteoporosis, as they have a longer period without the protective effects of oestrogen on their bones.
Preventing osteoporosis with lifestyle changes
While menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis, there are several lifestyle changes women can make to help protect their bones and reduce the risk of developing this condition.
Vitamin D, found in oil fish, eggs and fortified foods and natural sunlight, is essential for bone health because it helps the body absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong bones. During the winter months, when sunlight is limited, the Royal Osteoporosis Society recommends taking a vitamin D supplement to ensure adequate levels (10 – 25 micrograms (or 400 – 1000 IU) of vitamin D is a safe level of intake).
Regular physical activity, particularly weight-bearing exercises like walking, jogging, or strength/weights training, helps maintain bone density and strengthens muscles, reducing the risk of falls and fractures.
A balanced diet rich in calcium is critical for bone health. Dairy products, leafy green vegetables, and fortified foods can provide the calcium necessary to keep bones strong. Also, maintaining a healthy body weight and quitting smoking and avoiding excessive alcohol help in osteoporosis prevention.
Common treatments for osteoporosis
In addition to lifestyle changes, there are several medical treatments available to help manage osteoporosis. EssexPrivateGP offers consultations where women can discuss personalised treatment options with an experienced doctor and we can refer patients to the appropriate speciality if needed.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is often prescribed to women going through menopause, as it can help alleviate menopausal symptoms with the added protection against bone loss – by replacing the oestrogen that is lost during menopause. HRT has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of fractures in postmenopausal women.
Other medications for osteoporosis include bisphosphonates which help slow down the rate at which bone is broken down, helping to maintain bone density. Other injectable options include Romosozumab, or for severe osteoarthritis, Parathyroid (PTH) hormone analogues such as Teriparatide, can help stimulate bone formation.
A new treatment option recommended for postmenopausal women at high risk of fractures, recently approved by NICE, is Abaloparatide. This medication works by stimulating new bone growth, making it an exciting development in osteoporosis treatment.
Menopause consultations at EssexPrivateGP
At EssexPrivateGP, women can receive a menopause consultation, where they can discuss their risk for osteoporosis and the best treatment options for their individual needs.
Whether it’s lifestyle advice, HRT, or guidance on other personalised treatments, EssexPrivateGP offers women the support they need to manage their bone health during and after menopause.
If you’re concerned about your bone health or the effects of menopause, book a consultation today to discuss the right course of action for you.
