Information for women, their partners and families about osteoporosis.
About osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to weaken. It can lead to bones becoming fragile and breaking easily, resulting in pain and disability. Around 3 million people in the UK have osteoporosis, which can occur at any age.
Post-menopausal women are by far the most commonly affected group because of the reduction in the hormone estrogen, which is important for maintaining bone density.
The following links provide general information about osteoporosis, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment options, and self-help:
Osteoporosis and the menopause
Whether a woman develops osteoporosis after the menopause depends on:
- The strength of her bones before the menopause
- Her age at menopause (women who experience the menopause at a younger age are at higher risk of osteoporosis)
- The rate of bone loss
The links below provide more information about factors contributing to the development of osteoporosis and what can you do to help protect yourself around and after the menopause:
Treatment for osteoporosis
Treating osteoporosis involves treating and preventing fractures and using medication to strengthen bones.
The links below give some further information: