How to Prevent Osteoporosis Post-Menopause

You’ve struggled through the hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings of menopause. Your fluctuating hormones have finally settled down. There are still issues to consider, however, such as postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Dean Hildahl treats menopausal symptoms and more at North Naples Gynecology and Obstetrics in Naples, Florida.

What’s postmenopausal osteoporosis?

As bone mass decreases, the bones become more brittle and are at greater risk of fractures. Estrogen helps keep bones strong. When it naturally declines during menopause, osteoporosis may occur.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 30% of postmenopausal women in the United States experience osteoporosis.

This number tends to increase with age:

14% of women 50-59
22% of women 60-69
39% of women 70-79
70% of women 80 or older

Dr. Hildahl works with you during and after menopause to protect the health of your bones.

Your osteoporosis risk

Certain factors, such as family history, tend to increase your risk of osteoporosis. These include:

Low levels of vitamin D and calcium
Thin body frame
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Long-term steroid use

Dr. Hildahl offers ways to overcome these odds.

Maintaining strong bones naturally

It’s always better to prevent a problem than to try to fix it afterward. Dr. Hildahl recommends lifestyle adjustments and more to keep your bones strong before, during, and after menopause, including:

Eat to compete

A balanced diet full of vitamins D and C and calcium builds strong bones. Incorporate plenty of:

Calcium-rich leafy greens, such as kale and bok choy
Citrus fruits high in vitamin C
Proteins, such as salmon and sardines, lean meats, legumes, and nuts
Whole-grain bread, oatmeal, and brown rice

Supplement your diet

Enhance postmenopausal bone-building by adding 800-1,000 international units of vitamin D and 1,200-1,500 milligrams of calcium daily.

Grin and bear it

Weight-bearing exercises, such as jogging, dancing, aerobics, and walking, promote bone tissue production. Free weights and exercises, such as squats and sit-ups, strengthen your muscles and promote bone growth.

Dr. Hildahl offers additional suggestions, as well as medications, that help.

Medications to offset osteoporosis

If your osteoporosis has advanced, the doctor may recommend medication to slow bone loss and help prevent future fractures.

Medications include:

Alendronate (Fosamax®)
Risedronate (Actonel®, Atelvia®)
Ibandronate (Boniva®)

A yearly IV infusion of zoledronic acid (Reclast®) or a denosumab (Prolia®) injection every six months may also help. Dr. Hildahl reviews the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

HRT and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can strengthen bones by slowing bone loss. If you’re considering HRT or BHRT for other menopausal symptoms, Dr. Hildahl notes they may provide additional benefits in your fight against osteoporosis.

Shedding light on an invisible disease

Often referred to as a silent disease, osteoporosis strikes 1 in 3 women over 50. Fortunately, dietary changes, weight-bearing exercise, vitamin D and calcium supplements, and medication can help.

If you’d like to prevent osteoporosis or wish to discuss other obstetric or gynecological concerns with Dr. Hildahl, contact North Naples Gynecology and Obstetrics by phone or online today.