Pregnancy-Associated Osteoporosis

Pregnancy-associated osteoporosis is believed to be a rare condition that is usually found in the third trimester or postpartum period. It usually occurs during the first pregnancy, is temporary, and does not recur. Women affected usually complain of back pain, have a loss of height, and have vertebral fractures. In 1996, there had been 80 cases reported in the medical literature. Researchers do not know if this condition occurs as a result of pregnancy or because of pre-existing conditions in a pregnant woman. Factors that may cause this condition, such as genetic factors or steroid use, are being studied. Even though there is stress on a pregnant woman’s calcium supply and calcium excretion is increased by frequent urination, other changes during pregnancy, like increases in estrogen and weight gain, may actually help bone density.

There is much more to be learned about how a woman’s bone density is affected by pregnancy.