Bone health isn’t sexy—but broken hips in your 70s aren’t either. Here’s the thing: you don’t feel your bones thinning. But by the time a fracture happens? It’s too late to go back.
Why Estrogen Matters for Bone Density
Estrogen is a key player in maintaining bone strength. During perimenopause and menopause, as estrogen levels drop, bone loss accelerates. In fact, women can lose up to 20% of their bone density in the first 5–7 years after menopause.
This puts you at higher risk for:
- Osteopenia
- Osteoporosis
- Fractures (especially hip, spine, and wrist)
- Loss of mobility, independence, and long-term health
Who Should Be Paying Attention?
Short answer: all women 40+. Especially if you have:
- A family history of osteoporosis
- A smaller body frame
- Early menopause or surgical menopause
- Smoking, alcohol use, or chronic steroid use
- Low calcium or vitamin D intake
- Low physical activity
How to Protect Your Bones
- Get a baseline bone density scan (DXA)—especially around menopause
- Consider hormone therapy—estrogen helps slow bone loss
- Strength training & weight-bearing exercise—essential for stimulating bone growth
- Calcium + Vitamin D—get it from food first, supplement if needed
- Avoid excess alcohol and smoking—they weaken bone
- Assess your fall risk—because it’s not just about the bone, it’s about the landing
What About Medication?
For women with significant bone loss, prescription medications like bisphosphonates or newer therapies may be appropriate. These can reduce fracture risk—but prevention is still the gold standard.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to wait for a fracture to start caring about your bones. Midlife is the perfect time to get proactive. Because strong bones mean strength, mobility, and freedom—for decades to come.
👉 Strong bones now = a strong, independent future. Let’s assess your risk and make a prevention plan before a fracture makes the decision for you.
Need support or want to learn more about treatment options? Schedule a free 15-minute call to see how we can work together.
Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan is a family physician, board certified by the American Board of Family Physicians and a menopause specialist, certified by the North American Menopause Society, dedicated to empowering women through their midlife health journeys. She is the founder of Portland Menopause Doc, co-founder of the Portland Menopause Collective, podcaster on The Dusty Muffins, and an expert speaker, frequent podcast guest and active contributor to midlife women’s health research.
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