Bone Health After Menopause: How to Avoid Osteoporosis

Menopause is a natural transition in a woman’s life. However, it does bring changes that can affect long-term health. Your bone health becomes particularly important after menopause because declining estrogen levels can speed up bone loss.

Post-menopausal women are at a higher risk for osteoporosis, a condition that makes their bones weak and more likely to fracture.

At Women’s Care of Beverly Hills, the OB/GYN team, wants to help you stay healthy through all stages of life, including menopause. This Menopause Awareness Month, learn some steps you can take to protect your bones and keep them strong for years to come.

Why bone health matters after menopause

During peri-menopause (the period leading up to menopause) and menopause, you experience fluctuations in hormone levels, namely estrogen. Estrogen helps maintain bone density, so when your levels fall during menopause, bone breakdown happens faster than bone formation.

About one in two women over 50 experiences a fracture related to osteoporosis. Healthy bones mean greater mobility, independence, and confidence as you age.

How to protect your bones

Here are our team’s expert recommendations for protecting your bone health after menopause:

Get enough calcium and vitamin D

Calcium is the building block for bones, and vitamin D helps your body absorb it. Consume calcium-rich foods, like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified products. Seek safe sun exposure to help your body synthesize vitamin D or take supplements for vitamin D.

Stay active

Engage in weight-bearing exercises like walking, dancing, or hiking to strengthen your bones. Include resistance training (using weights, body weight, or bands) to help maintain bone density and muscle strength.

Quit smoking and limit alcohol

Smoking and heavy alcohol use both weaken bones and raise fracture risk. If you need help quitting, talk to our team.

Ask about bone density testing

A DEXA scan can measure bone strength and help identify risks early. We can recommend when and how often you should be screened.

Consider treatment options

For women at higher risk of osteoporosis, we can recommend medications or hormone therapy to protect their bone health.

Supporting your health through menopause

Bone health is just one factor to consider during menopause. Regular visits to Women’s Care of Beverly Hills can help you stay on top of changes in your body and take proactive steps toward lifelong wellness.

This Menopause Awareness Month, make your bone health a priority. Call Women’s Care of Beverly Hills today or make an appointment online. We can provide all the menopause support you need.