I've got osteopenia

Osteopenia: bone mineral density (BMD) that is lower than normal peak BMD but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. With further bone loss, osteopenia develops into osteoporosis. CLICK HERE to see what bones with and without osteoporosis looks like.

A few days ago, I opened up a letter from my doctor, a pink letter in fact, which stated that I had osteopenia. Ok, I guess it must not be too horrible news if my doctor didn't call to break it to me over the phone or in person. My doctor asked me to take a DEXA scan since I've been using Depo-Provera for an extended period of time.

In November 2004, Pfizer issued this disturbing news release:
"...women who use DEPO-PROVERA may lose significant bone mineral density. The revised labeling further notes that bone loss is greater with increasing duration of use and may not be completely reversible..."

Prevention and treatment of osteopenia include:
* regular exercise
* a nutritious diet with plenty of calcium and vitamin D
* lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and avoiding excessive alcohol, caffeine, and colas.

First of all, I guess I have to switch to the patch. I'll have to remember once every week instead of once every 12 weeks. The other disadvantage is getting a period once per month instead of never. About 2 weeks ago, I joined the gym at 24 Hour Fitness (hell has frozen over, j/k), so I'm working out again (mostly yoga and pilates classes at the moment), but WebMD specifically suggested doing weight-bearing exercise (such as walking), weight training (such as lifting weights or using weight machines). I started taking calcium supplements- I haven't missed a day since I learned about Viactiv in caramel flavor, yummy. While I'm blogging right now, I'm sipping on some Lactaid milk with a shot of Kahlua, double yummy. I don't smoke, but I'll have to think about the advice for alcohol and caffeine.

Lastly, yes, I know this is not the most upbeat post (most of the time, I'm quite a serious person). I'm sharing this personal info in order to make others aware, not just girls- it could be your mother or sister or girlfriend or wife. Pfizer has been testing women since the early 90's and only released the report about a year ago. Crazy.

[Tags: osteopenia, osteoporosis, BMD, calcium, depo]