Women on menopausal hormonal therapy face a decreased risk of low bone mineral density compared to those not using it, according to a study being presented Sunday at ENDO 2026, the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in Chicago, Ill.
Women who do not use menopausal hormone therapy have a greater risk of developing osteopenia and osteoporosis, which can lead to fractures, disability, and loss of independence.
For years, many women have avoided menopausal hormone therapy because of safety concerns and warning labels. This study revisits that narrative and shows that menopausal hormone therapy may have an important added benefit: protecting bone health. That shifts the conversation from 'avoid if possible' to 'reconsider in the right patient.'"
Diego Espinoza-Peralta, M.D., M.Sc., Vice President, Mexican Society of Nutrition and Endocrinology (SMNE) and principal investigator, Investigación Médica Sonora (INMEDS)
The retrospective cohort study included 387 postmenopausal women who underwent DXA scans (between 2021 and 2025). They were designated as menopausal hormone therapy users (33%) or non-users (67%). Low bone mineral density was defined as osteopenia or osteoporosis.
Those taking menopausal hormone therapy has about 69 percent less risk of low bone mineral density in the spine and hip compared to those not using it. This finding remained even after the researchers accounted for age, time since menopause, vitamin D levels, smoking, and other health conditions.
"In simple terms: menopausal hormone therapy appears to independently protect bones, not just by coincidence," Espinoza-Peralta said.
This suggests that hormone therapy could be a way to help people find relief from menopausal symptoms and prevent bone loss or lower fracture risks.
"Clinicians may begin to weigh its benefits more carefully, especially in women early after menopause, potentially improving long-term health and quality of life," Espinoza-Peralta said.
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