Hormonal Changes After 30: What Women in Dentistry Need to Know About Musculoskeletal Pain

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are already a top concern in dentistry, especially for women. But did you know that hormonal changes in your early 30s could increase your risk for pain and injury — even before menopause?

As women in dentistry, we’re constantly exposed to physical stress: repetitive motions, static postures, and awkward operator positioning. But as estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate in our 30s (a phase known as perimenopause), new challenges arise that can compound these risks. I have experienced this personally, and once I learned I was in perimenopause and learned about this connection, everything made sense!

Research by Dr. Vonda Wright — a leading voice in women’s musculoskeletal health — reveals that declining estrogen levels can lead to joint instability, decreased collagen production, and slower muscle recovery. So many tissues and systems in our bodies rely on estrogen, so when those levels start to fluctuate, our body can literally feel out of control. These changes often result in more stiffness, fatigue, and discomfort, especially for those in physically demanding roles like dental hygienists, dentists, and assistants.

If you’re over 30 and starting to feel more pain in your neck, shoulders, hips, or wrists, it may not be “just getting older.” Hormonal shifts could be a key contributor.

The good news? Once we're aware, we can start to protect ourselves. By prioritizing ergonomics, strength training, and rest, women in dentistry can protect their long-term musculoskeletal health and reduce their risk of burnout or injury.

✅ Invest in ergonomic tools

✅ Adjust your stool and posture regularly

✅ Incorporate strength training and recovery

✅ Monitor hormonal symptoms and seek support for potential HRT

I explore this connection further — along with prevention strategies and insights from Dr. Wright — in my latest RDH Magazine article.

Taking care of your body now means extending your career and staying pain-free in the long run. You deserve that.