@walk4life Using a systemic estradiol patch .05 helps with osteopenia by 'maintaining' the bone density you have now. The .05 patch should bring your blood serum levels of estradiol to 60 to 70. With higher estradiol levels 70> there can be 'increases' in bone density. With an additional systemic low dose (5mg) of testosterone and the estradiol patch it's possible to get even better results. For myself I'm not keen on calcium supplements due to the heart health controversy. You have an estrogen window to prevent osteoporosis. It will close when you are at the osteoporosis stage. I was diagnosed with osteopenia at 74yo. I did a risk assessment before starting on hormone replacement. I started slowly with lower doses of estradiol since I hadn't taken hormones before and worked up to .05. I had a DEXA scan right before I started estradiol. I'm due this June for my 2-year DEXA. I plan on posting the before and after result for the osteopenia group. For helping with body shape and weight (muscle and distribution of fat) I think estrogen and testosterone can help...adding weight exercise too. In fact, hormone replacement can help your whole body even at 74.