menopause X ray explained

Overview

Menopause is a natural stage of life when periods stop and the body produces less oestrogen. Lower oestrogen can make bones lose strength over time. A bone density X-ray, often called a DEXA scan, is a quick and painless test that measures how strong your bones are. It uses a very low dose of X-rays, usually on the hip and spine, and helps doctors see if your bones are thinning.

Yes. Bone density testing is common for people going through or after menopause, especially if they have risk factors such as an early menopause, previous fractures, or a family history of osteoporosis.

It affects anyone who experiences menopause, including women, trans men, and non-binary people assigned female at birth. Bone density scans are often recommended for people over 50 with risk factors, or over 65 as part of routine bone health checks.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Often there are no symptoms of early bone thinning.
• Back pain that comes on suddenly or with movement.
• Loss of height over time.
• A stooped or curved posture.
• A bone fracture after a minor bump or fall.

Symptoms in children

• Not applicable – this topic relates to adults going through menopause.

Symptoms in older adults

• Fragile bones that break more easily than expected.
• Difficulty standing or walking due to a hip or spine fracture.
• Developing a curved spine from vertebral fractures.

Causes

Main causes

• The drop in oestrogen during and after menopause speeds up bone breakdown.
• Other causes include long-term use of steroid medicines, low vitamin D, or an overactive thyroid.

Risk factors

• Age over 50.
• Early menopause (before age 45).
• Family history of osteoporosis or hip fracture.
• Low body weight or eating disorder history.
• Smoking or drinking alcohol above recommended limits.
• Long-term use of steroid tablets.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Severe back pain after a fall.
• Inability to put weight on a leg after a fall.
• Numbness or weakness in the legs.

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have gone through menopause and are concerned about your bone health.
• You have had a fracture after a minor injury.
• You are due for a bone density scan based on your healthcare provider's advice.

Diagnosis

A doctor or nurse uses a DEXA scanner to measure your bone density. You lie on a flat padded table while a low-dose X-ray arm moves over your hip and spine. The whole process is painless and does not need any needles or injections.

Tests that may be done

• DEXA scan (bone density X-ray)
• Height measurement
• Blood tests to check calcium, vitamin D, thyroid, or kidney function

What to expect at your appointment

You will lie still for about 10 to 30 minutes while the scanner takes images. You can usually keep your clothes on, as long as there is no metal zips. After the scan, you can go straight back to your normal day. Your results are usually ready within a few days, and your doctor will explain what they mean for you.

Treatment

If your bone density is lower than expected, your healthcare provider will discuss ways to slow down bone loss and strengthen your bones. Treatment is individual – it depends on your age, fracture risk, and overall health. Your doctor may also suggest lifestyle changes before considering any medication.

Self-care at home

• Eat calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified plant milks.
• Get enough vitamin D through safe sun exposure and, if recommended, a supplement – ask your pharmacist or healthcare team.
• Do regular weight-bearing exercises such as brisk walking, stair climbing, or dancing.
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol to protect your bones.
• Make your home safer by removing loose rugs, improving lighting, and using handrails.

Medical treatments

Your doctor may prescribe a medicine to prevent bone loss, such as a bisphosphonate (usually taken as a tablet) or another bone-strengthening treatment given by injection. These are available only with a prescription, and your doctor will explain how they work and any possible side effects. Some people may also be offered hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to help with menopause symptoms and bone protection – this is always a shared decision with your healthcare provider.

Living with this condition

A finding of bone thinning can feel worrying, but there is a lot you can do. With small adjustments, you can continue your daily routines and stay active. Focus on safe movement, good nutrition, and keeping on top of your bone health appointments.

Lifestyle tips

• Stay physically active most days with activities you enjoy and that feel safe.
• Maintain a healthy body weight – being too underweight increases fracture risk.
• Review your home for fall hazards like slippery floors or poor lighting.
• Talk to your pharmacist about any medicines you take that might affect your bones.

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with enough calcium and vitamin D is important for bone strength. Weight-bearing exercises – where your feet and legs carry your body weight – are especially good for bones. Try walking, jogging, tennis, or step aerobics, plus some strength training using light weights or resistance bands.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Living with menopause and the fear of fractures can be stressful and sometimes overwhelming. It is completely normal to feel anxious. Talking to your healthcare team, a counsellor, or a support group can help. You deserve support, not silence.

Prevention

You cannot prevent menopause, but you can slow down bone loss. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol can all protect your bones. For those who go through early menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may also help prevent bone loss – talk to your doctor about whether it is right for you.

Screening programmes

In the UK, bone density screening is usually offered if you have risk factors like an early menopause, long-term steroid use, or a previous fracture. Ask your GP about whether a DEXA scan is recommended for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• Osteoporosis – significantly weakened and brittle bones.
• Fractures from falls or minor bumps, most often in the wrist, hip, or spine.
• Spinal fractures that can lead to height loss, chronic back pain, and a curved posture.

Long-term outlook

The outlook is hopeful. Even if your DEXA scan shows thinner bones, early action with gentle exercise, good nutrition, and medical treatment when needed can lower your fracture risk. Most people stay active and independent for many years after a diagnosis of bone thinning.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.