Health topics · Health checks
Bone health check
Protecting bones after menopause.
Education only. This page gives general information. It does not replace advice from your doctor. If you are worried about a symptom, see your general practitioner or call healthdirect on 1800 022 222. In an emergency, call 000.
Why it matters
Bone loss speeds up for several years after menopause. Osteoporosis has no symptoms until a bone breaks, so checking matters.
Bone density scan
Medicare covers a bone density scan for everyone aged 70 and over, and for younger women with certain risk factors, including early menopause, long term steroid use or a fracture after a minor fall. Ask your doctor whether you qualify.
What helps
- Calcium and vitamin D
- Weight bearing and strength exercise, such as walking, stairs and resistance training
- Not smoking, and less alcohol
- Treatment when needed, including hormone therapy or bone medicines
Talk to us
Our free workshops cover this and more, in plain language, with time for questions. See our programmes or get support.