Secondary amenorrhea leading to osteoporosis: incidence and prevention

Health care providers should educate themselves about the risk factors and preventive measures concerning secondary amenorrhea, or menstrual dysfunction, and related osteoporosis. Amenorrhea in adolescent and young adult women can lead to a reduction in bone density and eventual osteoporosis. Anorexia nervosa, oral contraceptives, and long-term, strenuous exercise can lead to amenorrhea. A physical assessment of patients with amenorrhea and possibly a prescribed change in diet and exercise routine can help prevent loss of bone density mass.