Grand-grand multiparity (more than 10 deliveries) does not convey a risk for osteoporosis

Abstract

Objective. To examine whether multiparity is a risk factor for osteoporosis. Design. A retrospective evaluation. Population. 16 grand-grand multiparous women and women who gave birth a maximum of three times (n= 15), aged 55-60 years. Methods. X-ray absorptiometry was used to examine lumbar spine (L 1-L 4) and femoral bone mineral densities. The relation between parity and osteoporosis was investigated by separating the bone mineral density into three categories according to the score from the absorptiometry. Results. The women had a similar body mass index and post-menopausal status, lumbar spine (L 1-L 4) and femoral bone mineral densities. There was no relation between multiparity and osteoporosis development in the lumbar spine (r=-0.02; p=0.992) or total femoral (r=0.20; p=0.916) regions. Conclusions. Many pregnancies and childbirths along with long total lactation times do not appear to play a role in increasing the risk of osteoporosis at a more advanced age. © 2011 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.