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Postmenopausal Osteoporosis

Rapid reduction in bone density and increased fracture risk due to estrogen loss after menopause.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Endokrinoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Postmenopausal Osteoporosis?

Postmenopausal osteoporosis is a metabolic bone disease in which estrogen decline with menopause causes bone resorption to exceed formation, leading to significant loss of bone mineral density and deterioration of trabecular bone architecture. A bone mineral density (BMD) T-score of ≤-2.5 supports the diagnosis of osteoporosis.

In Turkey it affects about 30% of women over 50. Osteoporosis is clinically silent; most patients are first diagnosed after a fracture. Fractures contribute substantially to morbidity and mortality: hip fracture carries a 20-30% one-year mortality risk.

The FRAX score combines clinical risk factors with BMD to estimate the 10-year fracture probability and helps guide treatment thresholds.

Symptoms

Often silent; no symptoms
Back or lumbar pain (vertebral compression fracture)
Loss of height (accumulated vertebral fractures)
Postural changes and kyphosis (hunchback)
Hip or wrist fracture after a fall

Risk Factors

Early menopause (before age 45) or surgical menopause
Smoking and excessive alcohol intake
Long-term corticosteroid use
Family history of hip fracture
Low body weight (BMI <19)
Vitamin D deficiency and inadequate calcium intake
Sedentary lifestyle

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • For DEXA screening in women over 50 after menopause
  • After a low-energy fracture (fracture from mild trauma)
  • If height loss or back pain develops after menopause
  • If corticosteroids are used long-term

Treatment Methods

01
Calcium: 1000-1200 mg daily (preferably from food); split doses if supplements are needed
02
Vitamin D: 800-2000 IU daily; serum 25-OH-D3 target >30 ng/mL
03
Bisphosphonates (alendronate, zoledronic acid): first-line pharmacological therapy
04
Denosumab: alternative to bisphosphonates, preferred in renal failure
05
Romosozumab or teriparatide: anabolic options in severe osteoporosis with recurrent fractures
06
Smoking cessation, fall-prevention exercises, and home-safety adjustments

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Endokrinoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.