What should you know about menopause bone loss?

Bone is living tissue that is continually renewed. Around menopause, hormonal change can make breakdown outpace rebuilding, gradually reducing bone strength. This process may have no noticeable symptoms until a fall or everyday movement causes a fracture. Risk is shaped by age, family history, body size, smoking, alcohol use, low activity, some medicines, and conditions that affect nutrition or hormone levels.

Discuss your personal risk with a clinician and ask whether a bone-density assessment is suitable. Regular weight-bearing activity, strength exercises, balance work, adequate calcium and vitamin D from food or supplements when advised, avoiding smoking, and keeping alcohol modest can help support the skeleton. Review medicines and falls risks, especially if you have had a fracture or feel unsteady.

Arrange medical advice after a fracture from a minor impact, new persistent back pain, loss of height, or a change in posture. Seek urgent care after a serious fall, severe hip or back pain, inability to bear weight, or new weakness or numbness. A clinician can distinguish bone concerns from muscle or joint problems.

Ask: What factors affect my bone health? Should I have a bone-density scan? Which exercise is safe for me? Do my medicines or menstrual history change my risk? Would calcium, vitamin D, or menopause treatment be appropriate?