Menopause increases risk of bone loss, fractures, says expert

Menopause, the natural end of a woman's reproductive years, poses a significant threat to bone health, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures due to declining estrogen levels, a medical expert has warned. This critical health implication often remains overlooked within Nigeria's sexual and reproductive health framework.

According to the World Health Organization, menopause occurs when a woman's menstrual periods cease permanently as ovarian function declines. This leads to reduced estrogen and the cessation of egg release, making natural conception impossible. Common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. Perimenopause is the transitional phase, while postmenopause begins after 12 consecutive months without menstruation. In Nigeria, women typically reach menopause around age 48.

Qudus Lawal, an obstetrician and gynecologist, explained that menopause disrupts hormonal balance, accelerating bone breakdown while slowing bone formation. "The stronger the bone density a woman builds before menopause, the better protected she is against the accelerated loss that occurs afterwards," he stated, likening bone health to a financial balance of deposits and withdrawals.

Lawal elaborated that estrogen normally inhibits osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone. Post-menopause, reduced estrogen allows these cells to become more active, overwhelming the bone-building capacity of osteoblasts. This imbalance weakens bones over time. To combat this, Lawal recommends a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, weight-bearing exercises, and fall prevention strategies to maintain bone health.

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The stronger the bone density a woman builds before menopause, the better protected she is against the accelerated loss that occurs afterwards.