Women's health in Graz
Healthy through the menopause – breast, bone and muscle mass in focus
During menopause, hormone levels change – and this can also affect bones, muscle mass and fat distribution. For menopause-related check-ups, there are three separate examinations, each with its own specific focus.
- Breast cancer screening
- Bone density scan
- Body composition scan
Menopause check-ups: which examination for what?
Not every woman needs all three examinations during menopause. Breast cancer screening depends on age, the bone density scan on your personal osteoporosis risk, and the body composition scan on your own particular concern. Each examination is therefore booked separately.
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Breast health: screening without a referral
Women aged 45 to 74 with an activated e-card can come for screening mammography every two years without a referral and without a reminder letter.
The Austrian breast cancer screening programme regularly invites women in this age group for a screening mammogram. But you can also come without a letter: your e-card is automatically activated, you simply need to make an appointment. Whether you take part is entirely up to you.
Women between 40 and 44 years of age, as well as those aged 75 and over, can register under the current programme rules. For more information, contact the programme's service line on 0800 500 181 or www.frueh-erkennen.at (opens in a new window).
If you have symptoms, don't wait for screening
Breast cancer screening is intended for women without symptoms. If you feel a lump or notice any other change in your breast, please have it checked by a doctor promptly. The examination will then be carried out with a referral.
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Bone health after menopause
After menopause, oestrogen's protective effect on bone is lost. Bone loss can therefore increase, making the risk of osteoporosis and fractures more significant.
A DEXA bone density scan is not automatically necessary for every woman. It can be useful if additional risk factors are present – for example, low body weight, a previous fracture, medications such as cortisone, or conditions that weaken the bones. It's best to discuss with your doctor whether this applies to you.
Cost of the bone density scan
For ÖGK-insured patients, the examination costs €70 privately; any possible refund depends on the insurer. For the other health insurers we have contracts with (BVAEB, SVS and KFA Graz), the cost is covered provided the requirements are met – this includes a referral.
If you are unsure, please check with our practice or your health insurance provider before booking an appointment.
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Body composition: muscle mass and fat distribution
Around menopause, many women's fat distribution shifts more towards the abdomen, and muscle mass can gradually decline – even if body weight barely changes.
A medical body composition scan with DEXA shows how your body is made up of fat mass and lean soft tissue mass, and how both are distributed across your arms, legs and trunk. Lean mass is an approximate measure of muscle mass; muscle strength is not measured. A follow-up scan shows how exercise, strength training or dietary changes affect these values.
No menopause package – each examination on its own
We do not offer a flat-rate “menopause package”. Each examination has its own indication. You can book bone density and body composition scans individually or as a combined appointment (€120). If you would like mammography and a bone density scan on the same day, please arrange this by phone on 0316 840 90 50.
Relevant health goals
Medical sources
- Austrian breast cancer screening programme “früh erkennen”. View source (opens in a new window)
- International Society for Clinical Densitometry (ISCD): Official Positions – Adult, 2023 edition. View source (opens in a new window)
This page is for general information only and does not replace medical advice.
Book the right examination
Choose the examination that matches your concern.
Screening mammogram
No referral needed, with e-card
Bone density scan
ÖGK: private service, €70
Body composition scan
Self-pay, no referral needed
Opening hours: Mon – Thu 08:00–17:00, Fri 08:00–13:00