Which hormonal therapy can be used to help with osteoporosis?

• A. Estrogen and estrogen (ET)/progestin therapy (HT)
• B. Menopause hormone therapy is contraindicated
• C. Testosterone therapy
• D. Calcitonin

Answer: (A)

Estrogen deficiency after menopause drives increased bone resorption, so restoring estrogen levels helps protect bone. Estrogen therapy (ET) or estrogen combined with progestin (EPT) slows osteoclast activity, reduces bone turnover, and preserves or improves bone mineral density, which lowers fracture risk. The progestin is added when a uterus is present to protect the endometrium from estrogen’s proliferative effects. While other hormonal options exist, such as calcitonin, they generally have smaller effects on bone density and fracture prevention; testosterone therapy isn’t standard for osteoporosis in postmenopausal women; and menopause hormone therapy is not universally contraindicated but carries risks that limit its use to appropriate cases.