The female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone have been shown to exert a powerful effect on reducing bone loss and the incidence of osteoporotic fractures. Because estrogen controls the functioning of osteoclasts and osteoblasts in bone tissue, it influences the rate of absorption and deposition of calcium. Estrogen deficiencies can trigger increased activity of osteoclasts, a condition that can lead to both osteopenia and osteoporosis.1

A decrease in bone mineral density usually occurs in the postmenopause years, and has been directly correlated with declining levels of estradiol.2 Researchers have discovered that restoring optimum levels of both estradiol and testosterone is more effective in increasing bone mineral density in postmenopausal women than using estradiol alone. This combined treatment was also more effective in enhancing libido.3

One study of postmenopausal women receiving progesterone demonstrated increased bone density in all subjects. Over several years, average bone mass increased by 15.4%. Height loss was stabilized, and no new osteoporotic fractures occurred.4 Progesterone appears to enhance new bone formation, in contrast to estrogen, which merely inhibits resorption of old bone.

The Female Hormone Profile analyzes the activity of progesterone and estradiol over a 28-day cycle, and includes an assay of testosterone, revealing how hormones may be triggering symptoms related to imbalances in the menstrual cycle.

The Menopause Profile evaluates estradiol, estrone, estriol, and progesterone levels over a five-day period, and includes a testosterone assay, to determine imbalances related to menopause symptoms and deficiencies linked to osteoporosis.

Both profiles are accurate, noninvasive salivary assays.

The Women's Hormonal Health Assessment provides a focused overview of hormonal balance in both pre- and post-menopausal women, using a single serum sample to evaluate dynamics of sex steroid metabolism that can profoundly affect a woman's health throughout her lifetime.

References:
1 Wren B. Reproductive endocrinology. In: Hacker N and Moore J, eds. Essentials of obstetrics and gynecology. Philadelphia: W.B. Sanders Co., 1992.
2 Rannevik G, Jeppsson S, Johnell O, Bjerre B, Laurell-Borulf Y, SvanbergL. A longitudinal study of the perimenopausal transition: altered profiles of steroid and pituitary hormones, SHBG and bone mineral density. Maturitas 1995;21(2):103-13.
3 Davis SR, McCloud P, Strauss BJ, Burger H. Testosterone enhances estradiol's effects on postmenopausal bone density and sexuality. Maturitas 1995;21(3):227-36.
4 Lee JR. Med Hypotheses 1991;35:316-318.

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Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.