Many health-conscious women regularly get Pap smears and mammograms but know little about bone density tests. This quick and painless test, often first done after menopause, can predict whether you'll suffer from thinning bones and fractures. The results can help doctors decide if medication or lifestyle changes are necessary. Bone density tests are crucial for predicting fracture risk, especially as fractures become more serious with age, affecting mobility. Certain women are at higher risk for osteoporosis due to factors like family history or long-term corticosteroid use. While official guidelines recommend bone density tests for women 65 and older, many doctors suggest starting at menopause. DEXA is the most common method, non-invasive and quick, costing about $150. The test results include T-scores and Z-scores; T-scores compare your bone density to a 30-year-old healthy adult, while Z-scores compare it to others in your age group.