Bone loss in premenopausal, perimenopausal and postmenopausal women: results of a prospective observational study over 9 years

ABSTRACTIntroduction Few longitudinal data about rates of bone loss in women in midlife exist. Fewer still with their reproductive states having been carefully assessed and sequentially followed-up.Methods Complete data from 50 women younger than 60 years (mean age at baseline 48.3±5.4 years) were prospectively collected over 9 years. This was done by standardized interviews, measurement of endocrinological parameters as well as bone markers and repeated bone mineral density (BMD) measurements using quantitative computer tomography (QCT). Women were classified in three groups according to their reproductive characteristics over 9 years.Results Significant BMD loss was found in women going through the menopausal transition. In perimenopause, there was a correlation (multiple regression results, r = −0.396 and r = −0.527) between accelerated bone density loss and increased gonadotropin levels (follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone). Although significantly higher levels of bone markers (osteocalc...