Clin Osteol 2026; 31(2): 78-82 | DOI: 10.36290/clo.2026.011

Menopausal hormone therapy and bone healthMain theme

Lukrécia Tatárová

Gynekologická ambulance, MEDFEM, s. r. o., Praha

Menopause is a physiological phase in a woman's life that is associated not only with the occurrence of vasomotor and urogenital symptoms, but also with significant long term health consequences, particularly affecting skeletal, cardiovascular, and cognitive health. Declining estrogen levels lead to accelerated bone loss, which may result in the development of osteoporosis. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) represents the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms and the genitourinary syndrome of menopause, while also serving as an effective strategy for the prevention of postmenopausal bone loss. Numerous randomized controlled trials and metaanalyses have demonstrated that MHT significantly increases bone mineral density and reduces the risk of both vertebral and nonvertebral fractures. The most favorable benefit-risk profile is observed when therapy is initiated in women younger than 60 years or within 10 years of menopause onset. The choice of therapy type, dose, duration, and route of administration should be individualized, taking into account clinical symptoms, baseline risk profile, and patient preferences. A personalized approach, along with regular reassessment of the benefit-risk ratio, remains a key principle of management.

Keywords: hormone therapy, menopause, osteoporosis.

Accepted: June 12, 2026; Published: July 1, 2026  Show citation