Pregnancy and lactation as risk factors for subsequent bone loss and osteoporosis

✍ Scribed by Maryfran Sowers

• Publisher: American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
• Year: 2009
• Tongue: English
• Weight: 839 KB
• Volume: 11
• Category: Article
• ISSN: 0884-0431
• DOI: 10.1002/jbmr.5650110803

✦ Synopsis

I mass is an important determinant of subsequent osteoporosis risk since there are few resources to significantly restore bone lost with menopause and aging. Both pregnancy and lactation might have significant impact on the achievement and maintenance of peak bone mass.

Pregnancy and lactation are characterized by significant alterations in the maternal endocrinologic environment, particularly estrogen and prolactin, which may alter bone density. Levels of circulating maternal estrogen rise as the placenta produces large quantities of estradiol to facilitate growth, while lactation remains a hypoestrogenic state in response to elevated prolactin levels.('-') In addition, there is substantial calcium transfer from the mother for redistribution to the fetus or infant. In lieu of these factors, there is concern that fetal demands might outstrip the calcium available from intestinal absorption, forcing the reservoir of the maternal skeleton to be accessed. The impact could include reduced mineral for subsequent pregnancies or increased risk for maternal osteoporosis and fracture, either during the reproductive period or later in life.