Menopause › Osteoporosis Prevention

Osteoporosis Prevention in Busan

Bone loss speeds up in the years after menopause as estrogen falls, often without any symptoms until a fracture. Testing, lifestyle changes and, when needed, medication can lower that risk. Here's how to get started with a Busan OB/GYN.

Who is at higher risk?

• Women after menopause, especially early menopause (before 45) or surgical removal of the ovaries.
• Low body weight, a parent who had a hip fracture, or a previous low-impact fracture.
• Smoking, heavy alcohol use, and little physical activity.
• Long-term steroid use, some cancer and epilepsy treatments, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid overactivity and some digestive conditions.

Bone density testing

A DXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan measures bone density at the spine and hip in a few minutes, using a low radiation dose. Results are reported as a T-score. Your doctor may also estimate 10-year fracture risk using a tool such as FRAX. Some OB/GYN clinics have their own scanner, and others refer to a hospital or imaging center. Korea's national health screening program includes bone density testing for women at certain ages. Check your eligibility with the NHIS.

Prevention steps

• Exercise : weight-bearing activity (walking, stair climbing, hiking Busan's hills) plus strength training two or more times a week.
• Calcium and vitamin D : aim to meet needs mainly from food (dairy, tofu, small fish with bones, leafy greens). Supplements may be advised if intake or vitamin D levels are low.
• Protein : adequate intake supports muscle and bone.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
• Prevent falls : check vision, footwear and home hazards.

Medical treatment

If bone density is low or fracture risk is high, options include menopausal hormone therapy (mainly when also treating symptoms in younger postmenopausal women), bisphosphonates, SERMs, denosumab and other agents. Your doctor will explain benefits and side effects. See Hormone Replacement Therapy .

Cost and insurance

Bone density scans and osteoporosis medicines may be covered by National Health Insurance (NHI) with a co-pay when criteria are met, for example based on age or test results. Otherwise they are self-pay. Ask the clinic before testing.

Tips for foreigners

• Bring your ARC or passport and any previous DXA reports. Results from abroad help track changes.
• Use 1330 for interpretation. See our international patients guide .

Related

• Menopause Services
• Hormone Replacement Therapy
• Perimenopause
• Annual Women's Health Checkup
• Hormone Blood Tests
• Women's Health Checkup Cost

When to get help sooner

See a doctor promptly after any fracture from a minor fall, for sudden severe back pain (which may be a spinal fracture), or for noticeable height loss or a curving upper back. Call 119 if you can't stand or bear weight after a fall.

OB/GYN clinics in Busan for bone health

Call ahead to ask whether the clinic does bone density scans in-house or refers elsewhere.

Osteoporosis prevention: FAQ