The risk of osteoporosis in PCOS is not well understood as few longitudinal studies of PCOS exist. I was thrilled to win an Osteolab test kit in a recent competition. It came as a perfect opportunity for me to test my personal risk of osteoporosis which is all the more timely having newly entered Perimenopause.
What is Osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis is a slow developing condition and is often only diagnosed after a facture has occurred.[1] Osteoporosis makes bones weak and fragile and more likely to break [1].
Causes and risk of osteoporosis
As we age it is normal to lose bone but some people may experience a rapid loss of bone leading to osteoporosis and an increased risk of broken bones. Women are particularly at risk of rapid bone loss in the first few years after Menopause and are more at risk of they have early Menopause (before the age of 45) or if their ovaries have been removed[2]. There is conflicting evidence on the effects of PCOS on osteoporosis risk. Recent studies suggest that accompanied with hyperandrognism, PCOS confers a higher bone mineral density and reduced risk of fractures. So when I received the Osteolab test kit I was eager to find out my results [3].
Osteolab early detection of osteoporosis risk
The quick, user-friendly home test kit from Osteolabs determines the calcium ratios in the bones using a urine sample. Simply test yourself at home and get a detailed report of your results. The test gives you the advantage of finding out your risk before large amounts of bone substance have been broken down, allowing you to seek treatment early[4]. Discover more about the test here;
Treatments and living with Osteoporosis
As well as bone strengthening medications, there is some evidence to suggest that Physical Activity also reduces the risk of fractures in Osteoporosis. HRT can also help some people protect their bone health. If you reach the menopause early before age 45 years and especially before the age of 40, it is important to consider HRT as declining oestrogen levels increases your risk. Speak to your healthcare professional. As with all medications, there are risks linked to taking HRT as well as benefits and these vary from person to person so its important to consider your personal risks and benefits to decide if you can use it and how long for. Discuss these risks with your healthcare professional, so you can make an informed choice.[2]
My results
I’m pleased to say I was surprised to find that my bone health is well above average for my age which is very reassuring. It also leaves me thinking that when it comes to PCOS there is so much yet to be discovered :)
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References
[1] Osteoporosis - NHS, (n.d.). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/osteoporosis/ (accessed March 7, 2022).
[2] Royal Osteoporosis Society | Hormone replacement therapy, (n.d.). https://theros.org.uk/information-and-support/osteoporosis/treatment/hormone-replacement-therapy/ (accessed March 7, 2022).
[3] H. Deshmukh, N. Shah, M. Papageorgiou, M.A. Abdalla, F. Lhaf, M. Aye, T. Sathyapalan, Genetic risk for the polycystic ovary syndrome, bone mineral density and fractures in women and men: A UK Biobank Mendelian randomisation study, Bone. 155 (2022) 116285. https://doi.org/10.1016/J.BONE.2021.116285.
[4] Detect osteoporosis early - osteolabs, (n.d.). https://osteolabs.co.uk/osteotest-home (accessed March 7, 2022).