Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition caused by low bone density and results in brittle bones which are prone to fracture. Bone is constantly remodeling. Osteoporosis occurs when not enough new bone is made or when too much is removed, or both. Approximately 28 million Americans, 22 million of whom are women, have osteoporosis.
It is estimated that half of all women over 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in their lifetime. Bone fractures caused by osteoporosis result in stooped posture from compression fractures, chronic pain, crippling fractures, and loss of independence. The complications of these fractures (especially hip fractures) may result in death.
There are well defined non-modifiable risks for osteoporosis which include: Caucasian race; small, thin stature; family history; bone disease; corticosteroid use; history of bone fractures; early menopause; and, postmenopausal state. Modifiable risk factors include: a diet low in calcium; excessive alcohol intake; sedentary life style; eating disorders; and smoking.
Bone mineral density testing is recommended for women who are 65 years or older, postmenopausal with risk factors, or postmenopausal with a previous fracture. There are a variety of methods available to evaluate bone mineral density. Your reproductive endocrinologist can discuss with you the evaluation and treatment of this disorder.
The chances for a viable birth after one miscarriage are approximately 76 percent. After two and three miscarriages the chances for a live birth are 70 and 65 percent, respectively. When one has experienced four miscarriages, a live birth can be anticipated in approximately 60% of these pregnancies.
