Hi everyone. Thanks so much for your input. I want to clarify a few things - I was diagnosed at 18 with an incredibly rare presentation of Primary Ovarian Failure of autoimmune origin. This was back in 1986 when US medicine was not yet studying women to a great degree and therefore didn't know a lot about how women's bodies worked in comparison to men's. No studies were done. I was not part of any trials. Instead, the endocrinologist at the time told me I would never have children and would likely get diagnosed with more autoimmune illnesses in my lifetime. It was the medical equivalent of getting a pat on the head.
I was blindsided by my diagnosis of severe osteoporosis. Severe enough that they cautioned me not to fall. I knew it was possible with the autoimmune illness, but not to the severity I have.
The endocrinologist I have now is one of the most arrogant, dismissive doctors I've ever had. He actually laughed at me during a visit. Before you ask why I haven't changed - I live in America where this is the norm. Finding someone who would actually listen would take months. I'm seeing my primary instead of him because when I told him emphatically that I would not take prednisone because of the damage it does to my mental health, he ignored me and prescribed it anyway.
I feel a bit trapped as a result.
Yes, nutrition plays a role here, but if I don't use medications to help build bone, I will end up in a wheelchair.
I hope this helps. Thanks so much for all of your amazing support. It helps me feel less alone.