Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis means "porous bone." It's a condition in which bones gradually lose density and strength, becoming weak and brittle and far more likely to break — often from a minor fall or even everyday activity. The hip, spine, and wrist are the most common fracture sites.

Estrogen helps protect bone, so when it falls during the menopause transition, bone loss speeds up — women can lose a meaningful share of their bone density in the first several years after menopause. This is why osteoporosis is much more common in women, and why bone health becomes a priority after menopause.

Osteoporosis is often called a "silent" disease because it usually causes no symptoms until a bone breaks. Over time it can lead to loss of height, a stooped posture, or back pain from a collapsed (fractured) vertebra. Frequently, the first sign is an unexpected fracture.

Key risk factors include menopause and falling estrogen, older age, being female, a family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, smoking, heavy alcohol use, low calcium or vitamin D, physical inactivity, and long-term use of steroid medication.

Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a bone density scan (DEXA), a quick, painless X-ray that measures bone strength and gives a "T-score." Doctors may recommend screening for women around or after menopause, especially with risk factors. Tools that estimate fracture risk help guide whether treatment is needed.

Much can be done to protect bone. Helpful steps include weight-bearing and strength exercise, getting enough calcium and vitamin D (see menopause supplements), not smoking, and limiting alcohol. When treatment is needed, medications such as bisphosphonates strengthen bone, and hormone therapy helps protect bone in some women. Preventing falls is also important.