Imaging After Menopause

Many of us think of menopause as an end. An end to ovulation, menstruation, and the changes our bodies undergo. That way of thinking, although common, isn’t entirely accurate.

Women’s bodies continue to change even after menopause. In fact, many things, such as breast density and bone health, can begin to change more than they did before. If you started regular mammograms in your 40s, it may now be time to add other scans to your routine. 

Menopause begins with perimenopause, the stage that is often filled with the most significant changes and symptoms. This is when your estrogen and progesterone levels begin to drop, bringing along symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and trouble sleeping. Menopause officially happens once you’ve reached 12 months without having a period. Everything after that is called postmenopause.

Most women’s estrogen levels have never been lower than they are in postmenopause. This drop in hormone levels can cause continued symptoms or introduce new symptoms, such as low libido and bone loss. This is where DEXA Bone Density scans can come in handy. For women ages 65 and older, we recommend a DEXA scan every 5 to 10 years; however this can vary depending on previous results and personal risk factors. 

DEXA scans can sound intimidating if you’ve never had one, but it’s much simpler than many of our patients think. A DEXA scan is a low-dose X-ray that measures how much radiation your bones absorb. This can help determine your risk for osteoporosis and fractures, and how to prevent breaks. Results are measured in T- Scores and Z-Scores. A normal T-Score is typically -1.0 or higher, while a normal Z-Score is close to zero. Your doctor or Radiologist will explain your results in further detail and recommend the best next steps.

Low estrogen levels can also impact breast density. Other changes like weight gain or loss that are also brought on by menopause can indirectly affect breast density as well, making it a common shift in women after menopause. . Most women experience breast density loss; however, breast density may also increase. Your technician and doctor can assess breast density during your yearly mammogram, along with any other changes in the breasts.

Women’s bodies evolve throughout their entire lives, and they don’t end after menopause. Our team at NY Imaging Specialists is here to help you navigate these changes and determine a plan that works best for you.