Until recently, all women could expect to suffer from osteoporosis if they live long enough. Now there are many different medications to help prevent that condition. A woman's bones are strongest when she is 20 and she loses bone for the rest of her life. When she reaches the menopause, her rate of bone loss increases 3 to 5 fold. Most doctors recommend that a woman start estrogen as soon as her FSH blood test rises, a sign that she is starting the menopause.
Progesterone also strengthens bones.
Several recent studies show that taking each day 10 mgs of alendronate, brand name Fosamax, for many years helps to strengthen bones. A nasal spray containing calcitonin has also been approved to strengthen bones. An added benefit for some women is that male hormones also increases sexual desire, strength and assertiveness. Another male-like hormone called tibilone, has been used in many countries, other than the United States, to strengthen bones. It appears to be safe and does not cause women to grow hair on their faces or bodies.