Modern approach to monitoring and preventing osteoporosis development in breast milk donors

Abstract

The study of bone tissue status in lactating women is highly relevant due to the increasing prevalence of osteopenic changes and their complex implications for reproductive health. The aim of this study was to analyse breast milk donation as an additional risk factor and to identify key conditions for preserving bone strength in the postpartum period. Within a retrospective analysis conducted at the Kyiv City Perinatal Centre, medical records of 260 women were examined, including 126 milk donors and 134 breastfeeding women without donation. The study assessed bone mineral
density, haematological parameters, body mass index, and fracture history. Participants were recruited through healthcare networks under conditions of informed consent and personal data confidentiality. Key findings indicated that donors had a higher incidence of fractures after 30 years of age (11.9%), lower awareness of bone health (only 7.9% knew their bone mineral density), and significant deviations in vitamin D levels, with deficiency detected in 67.5% of donors. Among donors, 29.4% were overweight, and 13.5% had obesity, exceeding rates in non-donor lactating women. Over 10% of donor participants exhibited radiological signs of osteoporosis, compared to approximately 5% in the control group. Prolonged lactation without adequate dietary adjustments and physical activity was found to exacerbate osteopenic processes. The study underscored the importance of regular monitoring of biochemical markers and implementing preventive strategies (balanced nutrition, vitamin D supplementation, and moderate resistance training) to mitigate complications. The practical significance of these findings lies in justifying the need for early screening of donors and developing personalised recommendations to reduce fracture risk and preserve maternal health. The proposed approach could be integrated into broader women’s health programmes, particularly in modern medical communities seeking to reduce economic burdens associated with fracture treatment and prolonged rehabilitation

Received: 13.01.2025 | Revised: 25.04.2025 | Accepted: 27.05.2025