Osteoporosis

After menopause, women are more likely to have bone loss, which can lead to osteoporosis. The skilled physicians at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health can help, with healthy lifestyle recommendations and medical treatment.

What is osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a condition that results from bone loss, which weakens your bones, making them more likely to break. Osteoporosis is common in older women, but men can develop the condition, too.

Bone loss begins around age 35 and progresses more rapidly in women after menopause because the body no longer produces estrogen. Many people show few or no signs or symptoms of osteoporosis. You may not know you have it until you break a bone.

Risk factors include:

• Getting older
• Being small and thin
• Having a family history of osteoporosis
• Taking certain medicines
• Being a Caucasian or Asian woman
• Having osteopenia (low bone density)

Prevention and expert care for osteoporosis

You can prevent osteoporosis through healthy lifestyle habits, such as:

• Regular physical activity
• Healthy diet that is rich in calcium and vitamin D for bone health
• Not smoking
• Reducing alcohol consumption

Talk with your physician about lifestyle recommendations for your specific needs.

Your physician can monitor your bone health using a bone mineral density test. If you develop osteoporosis and lifestyle changes are not enough to improve your condition, you may need medication. Your physician can prescribe a medication to stop bone loss and increase bone strength.

Find a provider for osteoporosis

One of our physicians or specialists can provide prevention education or treatment to reduce your bone loss. To make an appointment with one of our gynecologists or other women’s health specialists, find a provider online or call 1-888-825-3227 for a referral, 24 hours a day.