Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Health, and Science for Women 35+ Ep. 519 We’re Failing Women’s Bones – The Shocking Truth About Early Bone Loss with Dr. Doug Lucas
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Nov 15, 2025 Dr. Doug Lucas, a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon and osteoporosis specialist, dives into the often-overlooked realities of bone health. He discusses how hormonal contraceptives like Depo-Provera can disrupt bone physiology, especially in younger women. Early screening is crucial, ideally starting in your 20s, to prevent osteoporosis. The talk explores the impacts of pregnancy, breastfeeding, and under-eating on bone density. Moreover, Dr. Lucas critiques current guidelines and introduces innovative testing methods like REMS ultrasound for better bone assessment.
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Screen Bones Decades Before 65
- Bone health must be assessed much earlier than current guidelines recommend. Screening at 65 is too late to prevent major loss because peak bone is built decades earlier.
Ovulation Drives Bone Balance
- Suppressed ovulation from contraceptives or irregular cycles disrupts normal bone remodeling and causes bone loss. Some progestins blunt but do not fully prevent this unnatural impact on bone.
Prioritize Peak Bone Before Pregnancy
- Build excellent peak bone density before pregnancy by prioritizing nutrition and resistance training in your 20s. Good peak bone cushions expected pregnancy and breastfeeding-related bone loss.