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I had been taking depo prevera shots the last one I had was...

Answer by quiqui
Submitted on 7/7/2004
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i've been using the depo shot for 1.5 yrs. it took almost a year for my periods to cease altogether, finally! i know for fact that depo affects each individual woman differently. each outcome will be different from the next; however, there is a pattern of similar symptoms, side effects, and length of time before period begin, and conception between some groups of women. use your best judgement using the masses as your guide. my husband and i plan to start a family soon, so my last depo was 2 months ago. We do not expect to get pregnat for at least a year; however, it can happen. It just is not likely within that first year. The inability to conceive after a year of being away from the depo is more uncommon than usual.

Answer by Kelley Macia
Submitted on 8/2/2004
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Hi my name is Kelley Macia and last time I took the depo prevera shot was back in 2000 or 2001. I'm now married and 19 years old. I've been trying to have a baby since I was 16 years old but I've had no luck. I gained some serious weight and my periods barely come anymore. I have a period once every 6 to 8 months and I'm on it for over 2 weeks. What I can't understand is, I only got one shot. I never went back after that. I'm looking for a support group who would love to get together and check into this a lot more. I would like you to email me at GwAtAmPaBaY@aol.com. To all the parents and young adults out there I suggest you don't take this shot unless you want the same problems I ended up with.

Answer by Heather
Submitted on 8/4/2004
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I'd just like to start by saying that hair loss is a symptom of the depo shot. I was on the DEPO shot for 5 mnths starting july 2003. It was one of the worst experiences I've had on any drug I've ever taken. It messed my body up a lot. When I started taking it I bled for 2 straight weeks. Then I had spot bleeding for mtnhs and a period every now and then. I took my last shot in December 04 and in March my periods stopped altogether. I havn't had a period in 5 mtns and i was only on it 5 mnths. During this time I've had headaches, I gained 10 pounds, I was always hungry to the point where I would pass out if I didn't eat, and i still can't lose the weight because it's still in my system, my breasts swelled up twice for weeks and it was extremely painful even to move or touch them and at one point they filled with milk. The shot is great in preventing pregancy, but it does come with a list of side effects that isn't worth the chance of experiencing, such as: headache nausea dizziness sore breasts change of appetite, weight gain depression hair loss, or increased hair on the face or body nervousness skin rash or spotty darkening of the skin change in sex drive pregnancies, which very rarely occur, are more likely to be ectopic (in a fallopian tube) osteoporosis irregular bleeding no bleeding delayed fertility These side effects may never happen to you, but just make sure it is right for you before u try it. I suggest if someone doesn't want to have to worry about taking a pill every day etc is to get a UDI, they r highly effective, no side effects, and reversable. The only downside is having it put in.

Answer by staley812
Submitted on 8/26/2004
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I have been on the depo shot for four years. I have not had a period since my second shot, so over three years. It has been really nice. Some people gain a lot of weight when on the shot, but I lost weight that wasn't needed. Overall I have been having a good experience until a couple of months ago, when I found out that I have ovarian cysts, probably due to the shot. They are not cancerous, yet, so they have left them alone, but the pain is increasing, and I will probably have to get off of the shot so I don't have to have my ovaries removed. If it isn't too late. Some doctors fail to tell you when you get the shot that it doesn't have any estrogen in it, that can cause cysts and many other painful problems. The pill and patch do have estrogen in them though. I go back to the doctor soon, I'll keep ya updated.

Answer by nicole
Submitted on 9/8/2004
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I'm 25 have 3 kids and have been on the depo shot on and off for over six years. With my first child I had the shot done right after I left the hospital. I was pregnant 4 months later (I skipped my scheduled dose). I was on the shot for another two years decided to get on the pill (that was my biggest mistake!) and got pregnant with my third child. I'm now on the shot and have been for almost four years and I can tell you that I haven't had any problems. As far as weight gain goes, well thats with basically anything you take now a days -- just watch what you eat and exercise. My suggestion to those who are uncertain is to evalutae your self. Are you planning on having kids in the near future? If so the shot is probably not for you. For those of you like my self who don't plan on having any more children then I would highly recommend the depo shot.

Answer by dbadest1
Submitted on 10/17/2004
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I HAVE BEEN ON THE DEPO SHOT FOR 7 YEARS AT THE BEGINNING THAT WEREN'T THAT MANY SIDE EFFECTS I EXPERIENCED HAIR LOSS, LEG CRAMPS, NO PERIODS, HEADACHES, AND LOSS OF APPETITE. I DID NOT CARE I JUST DIDN'T WANT ANY MORE KIDS, NOW THAT MY BODY IS USE TO THE SHOT. I ONLY EXPERIENCE LEGS CRAMPS WHEN MY SHOT IS DUE AND OF COURSE NO PERIOD. THE SHOT IS NOT ALL THAT BAD, IT ALL DEPENDS ON THE PERSON. I AM HAPPY WITH THE DEPO. BUT, ONE DAY I SOON HOPE TO BE MARRIED AND MEET THE MAN OF MY DREAMS AND GET OFF THE DEPO AND HAVE MORE KIDS. SO PLEASE BELIEVE EVERYTHING THAT IS MADE IS NOT MADE FOR EVERYONE, PEOPLE BODY'S ARE NOT MADE THE SAME, SO THEREFORE, YOU AND YOUR BODY WILL KNOW IF IT'S FOR YOU. NOW YOU LADIES KEEP YOUR HEAD UP AND I"LL KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS

Answer by Redtina78
Submitted on 10/23/2004
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I was on the depo shot for 4 cycles, which is just under a year. I gained 100 lbs, I have skin problems, extreme loss of hair, and some problems with memory. I have never had a problem with my weight, skin or memory before, in fact I have always had extra thick hair, completely clear skin and a photographic memory. My primary doctor told me that he has been hearing some complaints regarding the shot and its side effects. If anyone is thinking of taking this shot I would strongly suggest not taking it, it causes more problems then it is worth. I do understand that some women don't experience the same side effects; everyone reacts to it differently, but if someone had warned me about the "possible" side effects I would have never taken the shot. My friend started the shot about 3 months before I did. She had the same side effects as I did but on a grander scale, she had patches of hair fall out, her whole body is covered in stretch marks (places you wouldn't even think could get stretch marks have them), her skins elasticity and texture has completely changed along with getting boils and painful acne, she suffers now from depression and isolates her self a lot. We use to go to the beach and play beach volleyball during the summer every weekend (we're both too embarrassed to do that now). We go to the gym 4 - 5 days a week ( a tradition since we were in high school 10 years ago). We always we health addicts, but now we have to diet, go to the gym and we still gain weight. If you decide to go on the shot, please be careful and monitor yourself closely. If you start to see any changes or these side effects I would advise you to discontinue it. Good luck.

Answer by CEE CEE
Submitted on 10/28/2004
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After becoming pregnant at the age of 19 and going threw a miscarriage I decided I was to NOT emotionally ready to have kids, so I quickly got on the depo shot. I loved being on it because there were no emotional or physical side effects (at first). After only being on it for 6 months (2 Shots)I had a pap smear and learned that I had the hpv virus, something I did not have before I got on the shot. I know the only person or thing I have to blame for getting this is myself because it is considered a sexually transmitted disease. Although, I am starting to hear a lot of other stories from other women and the news about the depo shot being linked to abnormal pap smears, hpv virus, and cervical cancer. This is all what has happened to me. My pap smear came back abnormal, I found out threw a biopsy that I have HPV and pre-cancer cells that if not tested every 3 months could turn into cancer. Woman should be very cautious about anything that they put into their bodies. My mother who took hormone replacements while going through menopause was advised that she could develop cancer from these hormones and did, breast cancer. After being on the shot for 1 year and 3 months I gained over 25 lbs, and decided to get off of it. I have been off the shot for almost a year now and my periods are still not regular. Sometimes I will have it for 2 weeks be off of it and then get it again for a week. Not to mention horrible mood swings and unbearable cramps which I had never had before or during the shot. I know that our bodies change over time and all of us woman are different but after hearing some of your stories about not being able to have children or having hysterectomies I truly fear that something like this will happen to me. I strongly advise anyone to do a lot of research before getting into something like this or anything involving your health for that matter. Things might look great but you have to look at the long term effects afterwords. Good luck to you all

Answer by Alison Blair
Submitted on 12/2/2004
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I have two boys and am 30 yrs.old. I took 3 consecutive depo shots for the convenience. That was 4 years ago. I never got my period back and had to go on the "Patch." as suggested by my doctor to get me regular. After 5 months on the Patch, my periods did not come back either. In fact, I actually ovulated without a period and became pregnant unbeknownst to me and just lost the baby due to what I think was the imbalance of my hormones. Is the Depo shot to blame? I can't say, but I do believe that it definitely played a role in my body's ability to be the same as before I took the shot. I am absolutely regretting I ever did it and will advise everyone I know not to either. BE WARNED THAT YOU JUST MIGHT NEVER BE THE SAME AGAIN IF YOU CHOOSE TO TAKE DEPO PREVERA!

Answer by Ginger
Submitted on 1/6/2005
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I was on the Depo shot for 2 years. I was due for a shot in October, but my husband and I have decided to try for a baby. (I have a child from a previous marriage.) I loved the shot. I spotted 2 weeks after the first shot, and nothing again for the duration of getting the shot. In Oct, I made a Dr appt to discuss going off of the shot to get pregnant. Dr put me on the pill to try to get period coming back and regulated. I took it for only 1 month. First period was very light with lots of cramping. Next period was late, terrible PMS. My body is feeling more like normal now. During the shot, I did have hair loss for the last 6 months, decreased sexual desire, etc, but nothing so bothersome that I wanted to stop taking it. When I first started reading of people's problems after, it scared me. I am now sure that it may take a little while, which is not comforting as I am turning 34 this month, but I feel the shot is a great birth control option. It is much more effective than any other form of birth control. There is no problem of remembering it daily, and the bonus of no period for 2 years was great. Everyone is different, and getting pregnant can be difficult for some whether they used Depo or not. My daughter took over 8 months to conceive after going off of the pill. Some people get pregnant easily the first time, then it takes many, many years to have another. Some people have extreme difficulty with the first, then the next comes easily. I have faith that it will work out for the best.

Answer by jessica talbott
Submitted on 1/10/2005
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i took the shot only twice over the period of 2 months and the last one was in august of 2001. i have still not been able to have a normal flow for the past 3 and 1/2 years. i even tried a prescribed hormone and after that didn't work the dr. suggested going on the pill for 4 months just to get my period started again. it worked for the 4 months i was on the pill and now i am back to no monthly again. i don't know what to do because i exercise and do all the things they suggest for recovering after having the shot. i am at my wits end cause i even saw a dr. who said everything looks normal but i just don't have a period each month let alone at all. does anyone have any suggestions or should i just wait it out? and leya i am telling you this is just not a good thing the dr. i have been seeing told me this was made for older women who either can't remember to take the pill or can't stop having children, but then it does cause osteoperosis and there is no cure for that i saw someone die of that and your bones just disenigrate within you and you have no control you can break your jaw just from chewing. and you should also know that this is what they were injecting into male sex offenders so that they would lose there sex drive.

Answer by Justine
Submitted on 1/21/2005
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When i was 18, I was advised to have Depo as i was bleeding for 2 weeks at a time and very heavely. I continued to get the shot for the next 7 years, every 3 months. I stopped having the shot in the effort to get pregnant.......About 7 months later i was rushed in to hospital after colapsing from severe abdominal pain. I had 3 very large cysts removed from my ovaries. One of the cysts was twisted around my left Fallopian tube, so that was also removed. Today at the age of 34, i have no children and i am still taking medication for the pain. My internal organs are all now attached to each other with scar tissue. They want me to have a Hysterectomy, I would rather limp and deal with the pain than give up my slight chance of some day concieving through invitro. I do not advise anyone to get the Depo shot.

Answer by Elissa
Submitted on 2/1/2005
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I think it's horrible that some of you are scaring women to death on here with your horror stories.....One women saying her doctor said she had to have a hysterectomy from being on the shot...Please! Im in the medical field and have been on the shot for 3 years. Weight gain occurs, yes. Trouble getting pregnant, yes. Trouble having periods again, yes. But people please...remember that this shot stops the normal period process. It will take time to get your body back to normal. Being a responsible adult means researching birth control before using it. If you all had researched this shot before using it, you would have been well aware of all the side effects you are having. They wouldn't have the shot on the market if it wasn't safe!

Answer by rachelinwichita
Submitted on 2/21/2005
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I tried the shot 2 years ago this June. It caused me extreme depression, migranes, tension headaches, etc. After one shot, I decided to stop...that was just in time. I'm looking at a lawsuit now for the medical problems I went through. I missed 150+ days at work and went to the hospital 10 times in a 2 month period for headaches. The hospital gave me morphine for the pain I was having. I had to get FMLA (Federal Medical Leave Act) to salvage my dream job and in the end I quit due severe stress. I pray for anyone who gets this shot and will do everything in my power to get this off the market! Anyone want to join me in this? It's called Class Action Law Suit.....

Answer by pteddybear
Submitted on 3/23/2005
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I had taken the depo shot twice now . It has always stop my periods after the first shot, there has been no hair lost just a little weight gain. For the ones who are really trying to have childern, stop trying and just let it happen. Took my husband & I awhilw to have our first child. If you just let it happen instead trying to make it happen it will. Believe me when we gave up on having kids, well the next thing you it it happened. Don't blame the shot check into family history (THE Womens in the family ) I the only women on my mom's side that has not had to get a hysterectomy. My mom had one after my brother was born and she was 22 or 23 years old thing just happen and some thing are apart of who you. are. if you wnat to take depo but are not sure talk to a doctor and don't listen to every one else. the depo shot affect people differently. You are the only that can tell you to take it or not. By the way I just stop my shot I was suppose to take it 3/21/05, My period is already trying to start. Blodding now. see different people different affects. I hope this cna help all the is unsure about the shot. ask a doctor get all the fact then make your own mindf up!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer by andrea
Submitted on 4/5/2005
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I am surprised to read the statements I have read here. Didn't anyone do research on Depo BEFORE you started taking it? I have been on Depo for 7 years now. BEFORE I went on it, I researched ALL of the possible side effects, and I monitored any possible symptoms very closely. I am shocked that so many of you are/have taken this drug and did not do your homework on the possible effects before hand. It is our responsibility to know what/how/why we take ANY medication. I am so sorry so many of you have suffered so many awful side effects. I hope you will all learn from these mistakes, and research before you try ANY medication in the future. Not all medications will do right by all people. That is why we have so many new meds coming out. Contrary to most of what is said here, I did not do well taking the pill, and I have had fantastic results with Depo.

Answer by kelly
Submitted on 4/6/2005
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I just received my depo shot 2 months ago. this is to all the woman who are trying to conceive, takes an average of nine to 10 months � or sometimes more than a year � to get pregnant after getting the last shot, All woman are different and your time will come soon. Good Luck. I did about a year of research before deciding to get on the depo shot. There are many side effects to depo but many woman don't experience them. This symptoms are as follows: change in sex drive change of appetite, weight gain depression hair loss, or increased hair on the face or body headache nausea nervousness, dizziness skin rash or spotty darkening of the skin sore breasts There is no way to stop the side effects of the shot � they may continue until it wears off (12�14 weeks). The depo shot is not right for all woman, But this is the best advice I can Give. Good luck to all. God Bless.

Answer by Maddie
Submitted on 5/11/2005
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Actually a side effect of the depo.. is having hair loss.. in some rare cases. I just had my first shot and now am second guessing my decision because of the horror stories I've been hearing and reading... I wanted to try it because I thought it wouldn't make me gain weight like the pill did, however I've been reading up and many women gain more than 10 pounds.. I'd find it hard to believe that the shot would make you infertile 5 years after your last shot... why would it still be on the market? I have to be able to trust the government in keeping this available for us. Also, there are millions of women on the shot who have not experienced these kind of horror stories. Perhaps the women who are infertile were infertile in the first place... i mean have your doctors actually told you that the reason your infertile is because of the shot?

Answer by Jaie
Submitted on 6/10/2005
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Hello. I have been off and on the shot for 6 years. I have not had a shot in 9 months and I spotted in Feb. and was ovulating but have not had my period yet. We want to have a baby,but I don't see that happening any time soon. My doctor doesn't tell me anything to help increase our chances.I could uses any advice ya'll have.As far as recommending the shot I am in the middle. For me it did what I had expected..It got rid of my period(kinda funny when I didn't get it I was on cloud 9 but now when it doesn't show up I feel cruddy)But for many of my friends who tryed it the shot only prolonged their period. Yep they bleed for 3 months straight.They told me not to try it but me and my stubborn head went and did it any way.Now if I could only go back and listen to them. They have all had the babies they want and I am stuck with no babies. Help!!!

Answer by ladirozie
Submitted on 7/25/2005
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this shot does have many side effects, one of which is hair loss, I know this because I am losing my hair and also when you go to get your shot done ask your doctor for the insert that comes inside of the box that contains the shot, it will have an entire list of side effects, You should not take this if you have a history of depression, or are afraid to gain weight, If i would have known this, I would have never gotten the shot, I gain weight all the time and have to take depression meds as well, The only good thing is that I do not get my period anymore, but I am now thinking about getting of of the shot, and also getting a bone density test, because I have a lot of teeth that are cracked and have actually worn off, Good luck to everyone!!!!!!!!

Answer by DEEDEE
Submitted on 8/6/2005
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HELLO I WAS 22 WHEN I FIRST GOT MY SHOT.IM 30 NOW. I WAS RECENTLY IN THE HOSPITAL BECAUSE OF A PULMONARY EMBOLISM DUE TO DEPO. 8 YEARS IS A LONG TIME AND I CAN TRULY SAY I NEVER HAD SERIOUS SIDE AFFECTS UNTIL NOW. MY LAST SHOT WAS JULY 12 2005.IM BLESSED BECAUSE MOST BLOOD CLOTS ARE FATAL.I HAD ONE IN MY LEG AND TWO ON MY LUNGS ALL DUE TO DEPO. I HAVE TO TAKE COUMADIN FOR THE NEXT YEAR. IM ALREADY BLESSED WITH A SON WHO IS NOW 9. WHEN YOUR YOUNG YOU REALLY DONT THINK ABOUT SIDE AFFECTS, YOU ONLY THINK OF TWO THINGS. NOT GETTING PREGNANT OR NOT HAVING KIDS YOU CANT AFFORD. MY ADVICE IS ALL AND ANY MEDICATION TAKEN FOR A LONG PERIOD OF TIME WOULD AFFECT YOUR BODY SOONER OR LATER. JUST USE YOUR BEST JUDGMENT AND READ CAREFULLY AND PRAY BEFORE YOU MAKE ANY DECISION. I CANT USE ANY MORE BIRTH CONTROL EVER. AND IM COOL WITH THAT. IM JUST GLAD TO STILL BE ALIVE.

Answer by nk013
Submitted on 8/25/2005
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I had already entered a comment on August 22, 2005. I had only one shot injected two months ago and i deeply regret it. I wrote in my last comment that i have my periods for two weeks now along with severe abdominal pains. Well the day after I left my comment i ended up in the emergency room. I was in the hospital for 2 days (I just got released)The gyno that came to exam me there told me that he would never give that shot to any patient and that the shot should be taken off the market completely. The doctor wanted to operate on me to remove all the blood clots. Instead the blood just stopped while i was in the hospital. The doctor told me that i should be fine for the next two weeks but the problem will keep re-occuring for months. Please if anyone reads this comment and has not taken the shot yet, do not take it. If anyone has any questions you can email me at Nataliek013@aol.com

Answer by dp0004
Submitted on 9/5/2005
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About the losing hair on depo...LOSING YOUR HAIR IS A SYMPTOM OF DEPO!!! It happened to me as well. Mine has started growing back now that i have been off the shot. Here is the info to back it up... Pharmacia-Upjohn, the manufacturer of Depo-provera, reports that between 1 and 5 percent of women who receive the injections experience hair loss or no hair growth. A 1998 study by Cornell University found that among New York City adolescents, 10 percent experienced hair loss while using Depo. No one is sure why some women experience hair loss on Depo-provera, although most scientists' best guess is that it is hormonally related. This contraceptive is an injected form of progesterone that interrupts your normal hormone production. Neither the Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) nor the Luteinizing Hormone (LH) affect hair growth. Both FSH and LH stimulate the production of estrogen and a mature egg. A drug's side effects can't always be predicted in each individual case. However, if your hair fall-out is due to Depo-provera, then when you discontinue using it, your hair will grow back.

Answer by Jen
Submitted on 9/14/2005
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Hair lose is a side effect of the depo shots. I had my first shot about a week ago and am very upset. I have cerebral palsy and all of a sudden my legs are cramping and the muscles are spasming all the time. Sometimes it so bad I can't walk. So I've been researching the shot and have find a lot of side effects that my doctor didn't tell me about. My husband and I thought I was going crazy. I cry all the time, am afraid of everything, have panic attacks a lot, am always sick, and the list goes on. The weirdest part is I'm gaining weight but I NEVER eat. My headaches all the time and I'm always sick to my stomach. We will not being getting these shots again. I've lost friends over the mood swings I'm having. I'm normally a pretty nice person, do anything for anybody but now I just want to be left alone and am very ill when people won't leave me alone. If you're thinking about having this shot please make sure you know the facts first and don't trust your dr to give them to you.

Answer by krystal
Submitted on 9/26/2005
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QuiQui, it does cause hair loss. Maybe you should read up on the side effects. Website; http://www.fwhc.org/birth-control/bcdepo.htm (Side Effects) 70% of women using Depo Provera gain weight. Almost half of the women using Depo Provera gain more than 5 pounds after one year of use. Many women gain more than 10 pounds. Irregular, heavy, or no bleeding are common side effects of Depo Provera. After a year of use, many women stop having periods. Lack of a period becomes increasingly common with longer use. Other side effects of Depo Provera can include headaches, nervousness, mood changes, bloating, hot flashes, decreased interest in sex, breast tenderness, acne, hair loss, and back ache. After the last shot of Depo Provera, it can take over 6 months for the drug to leave the body. Side effects may linger until the drug is completely gone.

Answer by aw5756
Submitted on 9/29/2005
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You are lucky compared to me. When I received, my period were irregular. When I finally started after getting the shot, the flow was light. Now it is heavy and won't stop flowing. I have been on it a month but going through my cycle for over a week now which is highly unusual for me. The headaches are incredible and so is my insatiable appetite. I am always hugnry as I am always losing blood and eating is the only way to create more blood cells. I have not, however gained weight. I am hungry even after I eat and I have to force myself to stop eating because I am afraid I am overdoing it. Losing haIR IS A SIDE EFFECCT OF THE SHOT. MY DOCTOR INFORMED ME OF THIS AND IT WAS IN THE BROCHURE I WAS GIVEN.

Answer by Nina
Submitted on 10/6/2005
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I was 17 when i first took the shot. I got off of it after my 3 months where over. I'm 20 now and been trying ever since. I do think that it was a mistake to take it.Me and my husband adore kids and we plan to have some in the future.Even though I think my chances or almost lost. But that does not keep me from trying, I pray to the Lord to bless me one day. I can tell you that when i was on the shot (i did not get a period for those of you who don't know)i did have some effects which consisted of fatigue, my bones were getting weak and i had a tremendous weight gain even though i was in a strict diet. I do advise those who wish to become pregnant in the future do not take the shot.You may have consequences you do not want to go through.

Answer by Dawn
Submitted on 10/25/2005
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QuiQui, if you are on the shot, you must not have read your information. It states that the side effects are "increased headaches, decreased sex drive, breast tenderness, acne, abdominal/pelvic cramps, bloating. HAIR LOSS OR SLOW HAIR GROWTH, vaginal dryness, fatigue and insomnia." I was on the shot for 4 years and have been off for a year and 7 months. I have been trying to get pregnant and still can't. My doctor put me on birth control for 2 months to try and regulate my periods, but that hasn't worked yet. I even got a positive pregnancy test, but the doctor told me that was wrong. The shot was the worst thing I could have done, but I really didn't have a choice because I got pregnant while on the pill so my doctor wouldn't prescribe it to me again. I feel for all of the women out there going through the same problem. The only bad thing is my first pregnancy, we gave the baby up for adoption so now that I am married I really want my own child.

Answer by Amanda
Submitted on 11/1/2005
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I started on depo when I was 12 and I stopped taking the shot when I was 19 and wanted to start having a family. I was told that it could take a year or two to get pregnant so I thought by the time I turn 22 I will be pregnant. I got on the pill to regulate my period and because I heard that it is easier to get pregnant when getting off the pill compared with the depo shot. In December I will be 22 and still not pregnant. I am getting so frustrated every month and it just breaks my heart to get my period every month. I know that all of you feel the same. Thank you for listening. I would love to talk with all of you more, it does make me feel better to get it off my chest. It is hard to talk with family and friends they always tell me that I am trying to hard and just let it happen. It is only so long that you can just let it happen and it doesn't happen before you lose it!

Answer by GypsyKatcha
Submitted on 11/21/2005
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I had my only child in March of 1996 and started on the shot shortly after. I was only on it for six months, but have not been able to have any more children though I have tried for nearly 9 years. On the shot, my periods stopped all together and shortly after my last shot wore off I had a period that lasted almost 2 months. Then they stopped for a long time. When they started again I was lucky to have one every other month and the number has kept decreasing. Now I no longer have them at all without taking prescription drugs to induce them. Like another lady mentioned, I too have osteoporosis and I am only 28. I come from a large family and wanted a large family of my own. Not having more children is more than I can handle at times and if I had known that taking the shot just two times was going to cause me this much heartache, I never would have done it.

Answer by ash-a-ley
Submitted on 11/27/2005
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I think the shot is great! I mean, I dont know how long it will take me to have kids after I'm off of it, but it does effect every woman differently. I have endometreosis and instead of having a surgery at the age of 16 preventing me of having kids at all or having a lypo done which will make my bone mass drop drastically and have bones like an 80 yr old woman, I took the easy way out. I dont think you should be telling people how crappy it is, especially since some women have had different symptoms. We're not all the same. Our bodies react to things differently. For example, if you eat chocolate, you're perfectly fine, but if I eat chocolate I break out in hives..I am allergic but still, I can't say "oh my gosh, chocolate is bad, don't eat it" because it doesn't make people have the same reactions as other people.

Answer by Kyle's Babygurl Alwayz
Submitted on 11/28/2005
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I'm 14 and my mom is wanting to put me on the shot because she thinks i would forget to take the pill but i keep telling her that i don't want to take the "Shot" so i told her i would do some research on the "shot" and on the pill to see which one is more effective. the pill is 99.9% effective and "shot" is only 97%-99.7% so that means that 3.3% (or something like that) there is a chance i could get pregnant i may be 14 but when i read stuff like what i just read and from the research i have been doing the "shot" is one of the WORST ones out there so I'm gonna try to do all i can to get her to put me on the pill. If anyone has any suggestions please e-mail me at lil_devil_69_42021@hotmail.com little_brat_2003_12@yahoo.com or seantimothy_jasminejade@yahoo.com Thank you i would really appreciate it.

Answer by Victoria
Submitted on 12/4/2005
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Most of these posts were posted a year ago from the current date. I seem to be older than the women who have made these previous posts. I am also in a different place in my life. I am 37 years old and have 2 children ages 7 and 10. I am divorced and do not plan on having anymore children. I first took the depo shot when I was planning on getting my tubes tied. I took one shot and my period stopped completely. I decided not to have the surgery and to just continue the shot. As there was not a man in my life at the time I did not have another shot for over a year. It has now been over 2 years and I still have not had a cycle. Knowing what I know now about the shot, I personally would NOT recommend the shot to anyone who was planning on having children in the future. I would have been devastated if I wanted more children now. As I said before I do not want anymore children so I am not upset. I am upset however that information about this shot and the harsh side affects are over looked. Please think twice and then think again about taking this shot if you are planning on having children in the future. If you are not, I believe it is a much better solution than having surgery. Good Luck.

Answer by bloodymary
Submitted on 12/17/2005
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Side Effects 70% of women using Depo Provera gain weight. Almost half of the women using Depo Provera gain more than 5 pounds after one year of use. Many women gain more than 10 pounds. Irregular, heavy, or no bleeding are common side effects of Depo Provera. After a year of use, many women stop having periods. Lack of a period becomes increasingly common with longer use. Other side effects of Depo Provera can include headaches, nervousness, mood changes, bloating, hot flashes, decreased interest in sex, breast tenderness, acne, hair loss, and back ache. After the last shot of Depo Provera, it can take over 6 months for the drug to leave the body. Side effects may linger until the drug is completely gone.

Answer by Lady Confused
Submitted on 12/30/2005
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After I had my first shot, I got pregnant with my daughter towards the end of the shot cycle at the age of 20. It took me till being about 16 weeks along before I found out,(she had started kicking), and I'd had 2 shots during that time. My blood showed that I was only 5 weeks along, an ultra sound showed I was at about 19. I got on the shot again almost a year after I had her. (Even though I was paranoid) It's been about a year and I got off again in November because of the bone loss studies...I haven't had a period in years. Now what do I do? I wouldn't recommend this shot, I am a very confused person because of it. (This proves it's possible to get pregnant, with the shot in your system (?), short term. As for long term?)

Answer by Jenn
Submitted on 1/4/2006
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I have been on the Depo shot since I was 15...My mothers idea. I will be 20 in Aug., I have been try to get pergnet...No luck yet:( I have put on a lot of weight i was at 130lbs when I started it and now I'm at 200lbs and this shot sucks! My sister just turned 17 and again my mom is putting her on it and I told then to think of a different type of birth control...If anyone is on here thinking about it I say DONT do it....And if you want to have children in the future then it is really not a wise move..I keep woundering if i will ever get to be a mother and I pray every night that God gives me atleast one child...I have been off it for a year now and still have yet to get a period...Good Luck to you all and I will keep you in my thought!

Answer by depo shot hatter
Submitted on 1/26/2006
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Girls I advise you not to get the shot. I began to receiving the depo shot 4 months after I had my daughter. That was going on 5 years ago. My last shot was April '05. I stopped getting the Depo do to mood change, hot flashes, and major depression. I felt like I was going through pre menopause. I have been off and everything has gone back to normal. I did get pregnant but lost it soon after taking a test. My bones hurt and I have several other female problems that I think is do to the shot. Plus during the time that I was on the shot I still had milk supply in the breast. When asking the doctor they advised me that when some women are on the shot they do have signs and symptoms of being pregnant. JUST DON'T TAKE IT!!!!!

Answer by bonitepessoa
Submitted on 1/30/2006
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I took my first depo shot 10/05 and I am due for my second sometime in the immediate future. I wish I would've been more informed about it before I took it because then I would've known to expect the almost non-stop period(weeks at a time) after the first blissful--and teasing--four weeks of no bleeding at all; also the extreme moodswings which had almost cost me the monogamous relationship I invested in with the shot. But, irregardless of the havoc this hormone usage has caused, I know I am fairly healthy and consume a decent amount of calcium daily to avoid future bone marrow loss. I have also started a consistent workout regimen which I have learned helps curb mood swings with natural production of "feel-good" serotonin. I am going to track my progress by also using a journal to help me with my already busy daily routine. I have usually been able to use writing as a way to maintain my sanity and I've already started using it this year. Combined with my calcium intake and almost daily exercise, I think I'll be alright taking the shot but I will eventually switch off with another form of birth control to be on the safe side. Good luck to all of you and I hope this personal experience helps somebody else still pondering usage of depo provera.

Answer by Amanda
Submitted on 2/2/2006
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I had taken the Depo shot for 4 years and I was recently engaged and we would like to start a Family...I have been off Depo now for 7 months. I have missed a period..took 3 pregnancy tests all negative. while on Depo I had some spotting but for the most part my period stopped. I had a normal period after the first month off Depo. This is the first period I have missed since being off Depo...so my question is...is this normal?? I read some awful stories here I was lucky and all I had was some weight gain. I dont plan on goin on Depo again because I want kids someday soon. I just am trying to figure out why I missed my period? if anyone can help me please email me astinnett@gmail.com

Answer by Tee
Submitted on 3/10/2006
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Hair loss is one of the side effects from the use of the depo shot. It effects everyone differently. Unless you are a doctor, please don't tell someone that their symptoms are not associated with something. The depo shot can also effect your sex drive and over time can heighten your risk of osteoporosis. Please read the pamphlets, ladies. Know what you are putting into your body. I was on it, but I got off in December. My cycle has not returned. I have 3 children, one of which I conceived the same year I stopped using depo the first time. I cannot not tell anyone what to do with their body, but in this case I can say that I do not believe the convenience of the shot is worth the side effects or long term effects of the shot.

Answer by angie_83
Submitted on 3/16/2006
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i am 23 and i was on the depo shot for 3 years. i got my first injection in the hosp when i gave birth to my 3 yr old son.its been about almost 8 months after i stopped getting my shot.im trying to get preg but cant.my sexual disire is sometimes not wanting sex.i feel that the shot has tookin all of my hormones.my doctor didnt even tell me all the risk of taking birthcontrol shot.i wish i never got on the shot.if your a women who want to try this dont do it it will ruin your sex life and keep you from getting preg in the future.me and my fiancee have been trying to conceive for so long. after my brother in laws girl friend got preg i wanted so much to get pregnant to but i couldnt.when she had her baby i was wishing that i was the one that had the baby.research depo be for u try it.you might change ur mind when you see bone loss not able to get preg right away and loss of sexual disire...

Answer by Cutie42788
Submitted on 3/16/2006
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to be honest with all u women that are worried about this, it's really different with every female and every shot. my sister was on it for 4 years, got off it and became pregnant within a few weeks, she had no side affects during the 4 years on it, but once she had her son, she went back on it again and bleed very heavily for 3 months to the point that she was hospitalized. she stoped getting the shot after that. i myself have been on it for 3 months, i just got my second shot yesterday and i myself have had no side affects once so ever, other than the ocational spotting. so it's really based on the woman herself and how her body reacts or doesn't react to it. ope this helps other women understand more about it. -mary Cutie42788@aol.com

Answer by amy
Submitted on 3/22/2006
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I would just like to say that while all you seemed to find is bad vibes about the DEPO on the internet, I have been one of the "supposed" few to have a good experience, and I did a lot of research before getting my first one. I have had two shots, bleeding the first month and none since. The reason it makes you gain weight is because your appetite increases so therefore you do have to watch your weight and I have not gained any. I take green tea supplements, not only for the weight, but to keep my energy up (I have three kids, last two were 13 months apart no WAY am I taking any chances!) and green tea is also good for a lot of other health things too. Also, most doctors do not recommend staying on the shot for more than two years, I am only 24 and my doctor will not do a "Tube-tie" because she says she doesn't do it if you're under 25, therefore after my two years on the depo are up, I will probably get it done. I know a lot of people complain about problems with depression and stuff with depo, but um yeah...I think those same people probably would have the same problem with any other form of birth control?????? (Personally I don't believe stuffing your body full of pills like Prozac and Zoloft is going to do you any good when you might just be better off going to a counselor...saw my sisterinlaw go through this...but that's another board and another post) I guess everyone is different and I must just be one of the lucky ones.

Answer by Tay
Submitted on 3/24/2006
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I was on the depo for a year and a half got off and I say a year maybe two years later I had my first child. After my third child I decided to get it again,and I did for just the three months.I never went back for it and that was in Dec.2005 when I was suppose to get the next shot. I'm still waiting to get my period. Haven't had a period since September of 2005, and that's after I had my third child in August of 2005. I would and will never get the shot again. I should have learned my lesson the first time. The first time I didn't get a period for a year in a half, and that's after I stop the shot. Know i'm waiting again to get my period and it's been 3 month's. I have never wanted my period as bad as I do know. Only because I have to take a pregnancy test ever month to make sure i'm not pregnant. So if your thinking about getting the shot DON'T DO IT, IT WILL MESS YOUR BODY UP SO BADDDDDDD!!!!!!

Answer by Shell
Submitted on 3/30/2006
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I GOT THE DEPO SHOT WHEN I WAS 18 RIGHT AFTER I HAD MY FIRST CHILD. I WAS ON IT FOR 9 MONTHS AND WAS BLEEDING VERY BAD FINALLY A DOCTOR IN THE ER TOLD ME TO GET OFF THE SHOT RIGHT THEN.AFTER BEING ON IT ONLY THAT LONG IT TOOK ME TELL MY DAUGHTER WAS 3YEARS OLD AND FERTILITY PILLS TO HAVE MY SON. MY DOCTOR TRY ME ON THE SHOT AGAIN THEY SAID IT BE DIFFERENT THIS TIME AFTER ONE SHOT I TOOK MYSELF OFF NOW I HAVE OLD BLOOD COMMING OUT ALL THE TIME AND MIGHT HAVE TO HAVE A DNC TO CLEAN MYSELF OUT AND HOPEFULLY THAT WILL STOP IT.I'M GOING TO TELL ANYBODY DON'T GET IT. JUST PLEASE RESEARCH IT VERY WELL FIRST BUT IF IT MESSES YOU UP THE FIRST TIME DON'T LISTEN TO YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT TRYING IT AGAIN PLEASE.

Answer by Michele
Submitted on 5/6/2006
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Losing hair can be a side effect of the depo shot. I got my last shot in August 05, DH went to Iraq in September 05, so we're hoping my fertility will be back by the time he comes home in August 06. But, from what I've been reading online, it may take a while. :( I didn't realize until I got off the depo how much it had really affected me, and I am SO glad to be off of it. I learned after I stopped taking it that your doctor shouldn't let you take it if you have a family history or depression, which I do. I was never asked about family history. Coming off of it has been an emotional roller coaster, esp with DH being deployed. There have been several times I almost got on antidepressants because of it. I WOULD NOT recommend it to anyone. Like they say, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Answer by tinnytee
Submitted on 5/10/2006
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I was on the shot for 6 years at age 30 I'm now 36. Just to go to the doctor for my annual exam to hear that studies recommend that you not take the shot no longer than 2 years. This was not explained to me at the beginning, if it had been i would never put this chemical in my body. I never had a period in the whole 6 years that I was on this shot. I've recently switched to the birth control pill to find out that the shot takes about 1 year to get out of your system. The side effects that I experienced was headaches, arm&leg pains, outrageous appetites, and no periods. I've been off the shot for 5 months now, had a period for 4, now on my green pack of pills which is the 4th day and has not had a period yet. I don't think that I'm pregnant, I haven't missed a pill but its a possibility that I could be. Now is this normal? If you've never been on the shot please don't take it. I'm frightened because I feel that later on at some point and time that I might have some major problems.

Answer by rsimkins
Submitted on 6/20/2006
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I got my first depo shot 6 weeks after I had my first son. I got one more 3 months later. My husband and I decided to try for number 2. It took 22 months for me to have a period. When I got pregnant the first time I lost it at 6.5 weeks and the second time I got pregnant I lost it at 4.5 weeks. After giving up, I got pregnant again 5 months later. I immediately went to my OB to get progesterone suppositories. This raised my progesterone level to that of a "normal" pregnancy and I stayed pregnant with my 2nd son. I also consulted with my herbalist after the 2nd loss and he gave me wild yam cream that I applied twice a day. It was definitely a challenge to get pregnant. If you look up depo side effects it says that it could take up to 18 months for fertility to return. It took 22 months for me. I have been taking depo now for the 8 years my 2nd son has been alive. I have no period and no real side effects. I love it and would not change it for anything. Though I just learned that depo lowers your bone density so I will be adding calcium to my daily routine. Hope this helps!

Answer by Jennifer
Submitted on 6/27/2006
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I'm sorry QuiQui but hair loss is a side effect of the depo shot every website about the shot lists it as one of the side effects plus im going through it myself. I got my first shot two weeks b4 my 19th birthday which was in January of this year and im still on the shot and am supposed to go for my 3rd dose next week. Every day during my shower i usual lose about 40-50 strands of hair, but since i have alot of hair it dosnt show. As of two days ago i also got a light period and im still on it as of right now, so even if it says ur period will stop it may for awhile and then come back. I want to have children when the time is right and after reading these stories i thought about stopping the depo but i know that its different for each woman and since im still getting a period while on the shot i think i will remain on the shot until i finally decide i wont children, but right now at 19 im not ready for kids and the depo has been a great relief on myself i cant tell you how much i have saved on pads, but as every one said it depends on your body how the shot will affect you so if you are truly interested its a decision you alone must make.

Answer by seanaterese69
Submitted on 7/21/2006
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I was on the depo shot for two years, during the first shot i did loose some hair but it went away by the next shot - the side effect was listed in my booklet BUT if your hair is coming out in clumps get it checked out. The doctor can run some blood tests to rule out things. Also when I go off the depo shot it took me just over 2 years to get pregnant only because after consulting a fertility specialist. After ruling out any specific problems my Dr. said that it sometimes takes longer to conceive after being on depo depending how long you have been on it. BUT what she recommends for people trying to conceive or just want normal periods back is after your last shot of depo wait 4 months then go on the pill to regulate your cycle. Generally after a couple of months your cycle is back to normal get off the pill and it is much easier to get pregnant. IMPORTANT do not overlap birth control times!!! I did this and it worked.

Answer by Crystal Anne
Submitted on 7/21/2006
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thats not true You can have hair loss! Side Effects 70% of women using Depo Provera gain weight. Almost half of the women using Depo Provera gain more than 5 pounds after one year of use. Many women gain more than 10 pounds. Irregular, heavy, or no bleeding are common side effects of Depo Provera. After a year of use, many women stop having periods. Lack of a period becomes increasingly common with longer use. Other side effects of Depo Provera can include headaches, nervousness, mood changes, bloating, hot flashes, decreased interest in sex, breast tenderness, acne, hair loss, and back ache. After the last shot of Depo Provera, it can take over 6 months for the drug to leave the body. Side effects may linger until the drug is completely gone.

Answer by hmh003
Submitted on 8/23/2006
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Hey guys, I have been diagnosed with endometreosis and have been on the depo shot to try to help with the symptoms. My doctor wants to do surgery because I was on the shot for 6 months and it didn't take away the pain completely. Because the side effects of the depo really effected me they wanted to put me on the nuva ring. I am supposed to not have a period whatsoever so the doc told me to not leave a week for my period, just to insert another ring after I take out the first. I have done that and now I feel quite nausiated. It only happens every now and then and I don't get sick I just feel really yucky. Is this normal? Has anyone else delt with this? Thanks for your help!

Answer by skittleskh
Submitted on 9/13/2006
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I was on depo for a little over a year. For the first 6 months i would spot bleed every couple days and then finally it went away all together. I thought the shot was awesome while i was on it but then when i got off of it, it took a year to get back to normal and get my period again. That scared me. Now I'm hearing that there is a possibility that i may never be able to conceive. I will never go on the shot ever again and i don't think it should be on the market anymore. It just isn't worth the risk of possibly becoming sterile. PLEASE ladies, really consider what you're doing. It might be nice at the moment but the possibility of never being able to have children is one of the scariest things i can think of. Its NOT worth it.

Answer by roxysurph
Submitted on 9/17/2006
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I am 26 years old. I was on depo for 5 years with nothing but good reports. I ended the shots just 2 months after marriage b/c I was told it would take SO LONG to get pregnant! Nope, not me, I had my period within 2 months and pregnant 6 months later. I was happy but a little shocked b/c I expected to get pregnant much later. After my son was born, I went back on the shot because I was having such a tough time on the Nuva Ring. Once again, no problems, after 6 months. My doctor was very supportive of my experience on the shot. I believe that every woman is different and her fertility will be altered no matter what BC they choose (shot or pill). You have to be careful no matter what you do, get bone tests, check your health and be prepared to have fertility problem. I'm here to tell you though, the "year waiting period" is not true for all women. I am not saying I am unhappy with my son by no means, however, I was not prepared to be 4 months pregnant at my one year wedding anniversary so just remember, it can happen quick too!

Answer by turtle42082
Submitted on 9/20/2006
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I started the shot when I was 14, and had cancer at 17(no relation to the shot), I got off the shot at 18 and started my cycle immediately. After being told I could not have children I conceived at 21 and now after being on the shot 2 years I have been off it 3 1/2 months and have conceived my second child(just barely), however my doctor stated that this is very unusual do to the fact that my period did not return this time. He told me that on average it takes about 6 months but can take up to 15 months to get your cycle back. I unfortunately do not have much of a choice of birth control do to the fact that the hormones in the drugs out there. You see I can not use most of them because they will cause my tumors to grow in size or become cancerous and risk my health however Depo has always been safe for me so I like it, every one is different. Do research and use your own judgment.

Answer by desi
Submitted on 9/27/2006
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hey im 15 years old and started on the shot at 14. people are different so not all these symptoms will happen. for me..i gained alot of weight im talkin bout like 20 pounds the 1st shot, and i get realli depressed..bad headaches and had my period now for like 2 weeks..so you should read this before you consider it. For some women, Depo-Provera may have a number of potentially intolerable side effects, including loss of interest in sexual activity, infertility, severe headaches, constant bleeding (metrorrhagia), weight gain, panic attacks, muscle pain, heart palpitations, pain during sex, acne, irregular menstrual bleeding, abdominal cramps, dizziness, weakness or fatigue, leg cramps, nausea, vaginal discharge or irritation, breast swelling and tenderness, bloating, swelling of the hands or feet, backache, depression,insomnia, pelvic pain, no hair growth or excessive hair loss, rash, hot flashes,joint pain, convulsions, jaundice, urinary tract infections, allergic reactions, fainting, paralysis, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolus.

Answer by uandiluvme
Submitted on 10/11/2006
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I am 22, I have a 2 yr old. I have tried almost all birth control from the shot, the patch, to the ring and with all of them I would constantly bleed. Heavy bleeding non-stop! My doctor and I could not figure out what was going on. I never really considered the shot, but after talking with my doctor I thought that I'd give it a shot. I have been on for 6 months now and I have barely bled since being on it. But my doctor did advise me that I shouldn't be on it for longer than a year, she said that I after a year I should get off of it for at least 6 months and then get back on it. But that she doesn't think that I should be on it longer than 5 yrs all together. So I do agree that every woman is different and we all have different side effects. As for me the shot is working out great!!!

Answer by daisy03
Submitted on 10/17/2006
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I only took two shots of the Depo shot and I got off of it because I was having other problems and ended up having surgery. I made a personal decision to get off of the shot in April it is now October and still I have had not period. After reading these stories I don't feel so alone but I am concerned because I was already having some problems with endometriosis. I pray taking two doses of Depo won't have done anything to stop my period all together. I am not married or seeking to get pregnant right now. But I'm 30 and when I get married I'd like the oppurtunity for children. I'll keep you updated on how long it takes for my period to return. I was very skeptical of taking the Depo shot and did not really feel comfortable doing so now I wish I would have gone with my gut feeling.

Answer by lady not so lucky
Submitted on 10/26/2006
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I got one depo shot right after they first came out and didn't have a period for about 5 months. My husband I decided to start a family so I never got another shot, so shortly after I started my periods again we tried and tried to get pregnant and never did. I was told shortly after this that I would never be able to have kids because my ovaries were "frozen up" - not releasing eggs. We tried fertility drugs to jolt my system back into the normal order of things and about 2 months later I got pregnant. After I had my son I had tons of problems, but was able to get pregnant one last time - and then had to have a complete hysterectomy at the age of 26. How much of that is linked to the depo shot... I don't know, but I tell everyone who brings it up not to ever get one of those shots.

Answer by jessica
Submitted on 12/1/2006
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hello, i was on depo for 2 years it did good for what its used for. my last depo shot was on june 12th.2006.now its December.1, 2006 my husband and i are trying to conceive but nothing yet.hopefully very soon!!!! also i gained AlOT of weight on depo,and i know alot of people who have also.do i recommend the depo? no! mostly because the weight gain because ive only been off for 3 months so im still trying for the baby! the patch is a different thing i was on it for 2 years 2 days after being off it i was preganat. its just ugly!!!!! so i now have 3 kids 2 boys 2 and 5. and a little girl 6.working on that 4th one so anyone reading this please pray that it will come soon!!!! good luck ladies!!!

Answer by kita b
Submitted on 12/6/2006
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To all the women who have doubts about the depo, I have to agree with asimmons_punkin and it is all about your body, no two people are exactly alike. My dealings with the depo are wonderful. I started on the shot around 17 years old. At the age of 20 I got engaged and knew that I would like to start a family soon and like others heard that it could take up to 18 months before becoming pregnant, so about 6 months before my wedding I stoped taking the shot. Only just 4 months after being married I was pregnant, which was a little scary for me, but I was still glad that I am my child were healthy. I am now back on the shot and have been on it for 2 yrs since the birth of my daughter. I am planning on having another child about a year from now, so I will update you on how it goes. I don't want to be pregnant before July so I think I will probably take my next shot in Feburary just to be on the safe side.

Answer by JuLiE00
Submitted on 1/11/2007
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I want to get put on depo cause i hear so many people has it and they say that its great cause they dont have periods and things like that. But im afraid of it now because of these stories! But the things that make me afraid about maken the desion is gaining weight and haven a period for a long period of time and i dont want to stress over maken a desion im not sure of. But im not really sexual with anyone because im tryen to make my life first before i deside to settle down. But i want to be on it in case i do deside to have sex cause i dont want to end up pregant but im afraid if i do get on this shot then i wont be able to have kids when i get older and i dont want it to effect me as im getting older. So should i talk to my doctor about this before i get on it and have their opinion?

Answer by Kellie
Submitted on 3/14/2007
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I started the shot after the birth of my third child at age 22 (Nov 1999), previously I had taken the pill with no success. I stopped taking the shot in Oct of 2006. I have been fortunate not to have suffered from some of the problems the other ladies listed in their comments. Yes, I was told every time I visited the doctor, "get a bone density test" "try something else" etc. Not to be racial or anything but most of the testing has been done on Caucasian women ( as have many other medical tests). It is important for other women of color to check into their own background to find out what they may be susceptible or predisposed to, then there is family history. Personally, I have enjoyed being on the shot, no periods, cramps, or mood swings. I've had my children and don't feel the need to put unnatural things into my body anymore. My advice to anyone considering any birth control is: if your anything like me and not "routine" or "responsible" enough to take pills faithfully, take the shot and take your chances. Good Luck and God Bless!

Answer by PTPT
Submitted on 3/25/2007
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I have been on Depo for most of 10 years and most recently found that it does put individuals at risk for osteoporosis. I am reading the reponses here and realize that many of you are very young. Bone mass peaks between 20-30 years for women. I am 43, I have not had the bone density scan, but I have noticed decreased height which is one of the first indicators of osteoporosis/osteopenia. My advice as a health care professional who has been taking Depo. Those of you on Depo, especially those youger than 30 years old, please, please supplement your diet with at least 1500mg of calcium citrate split up at 500mg 3x/day. Magnesium, Vitamin D, Vitamin K and Zinc are also recommended for best absorption of calcium. Reference: "Beautiful Bones without Hormones" by Leon Root, MD. What you do now may save you from vertebral fractures later. I am a physical therapist, trust me, you don't want to contend with brittle bones in your senior years. This is a case where an ounce of prevention will save you much, much heart ache later.

Answer by flex
Submitted on 4/16/2007
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Side Effects back to top 70% of women using Depo Provera gain weight. Almost half of the women using Depo Provera gain more than 5 pounds after one year of use. Many women gain more than 10 pounds. Irregular, heavy, or no bleeding are common side effects of Depo Provera. After a year of use, many women stop having periods. Lack of a period becomes increasingly common with longer use. Other side effects of Depo Provera can include headaches, nervousness, mood changes, bloating, hot flashes, decreased interest in sex, breast tenderness, acne, hair loss, and back ache. After the last shot of Depo Provera, it can take over 6 months for the drug to leave the body. Side effects may linger until the drug is completely gone. You might try cleansing techniques to detox or eliminate the synthetic hormone from where it is stored in your body's tissues: drink lots of water every day, eat lots of fresh raw organic vegetables, drink raw vegetable juice, sweat in a steam room or sauna, get lots of exercise and fresh air. You can also ask at a health food store about herbal formulas or teas that help detoxify your body or that balance female hormones, or talk with a naturopathic physician or herbalist. Fibromalgia: flu like symptoms, chronic fatigue syndrome, gulf war syndrome, appear in some cases. kind regards flex

Answer by imscared12
Submitted on 7/3/2007
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im really scared! i just got put on the depo shot because i had bad periods! i am 16 and am a virgin! i mean when i am older and married i wanna be able to have kids and after reading some of your stories i am scared i wont be able too? it has been about 2 months since my first injection and i just started my period and it is really painful like i ball up and cry and cant move because of the cramps? can somebody please help me? i dont know what to do? i mean before this the shot has been great so im wondering if its just a side effect? i am also scared i will get osteoporosis when i am older? i am wondering if i should print this page out and let my docter take a look at it? any advice?

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Question by auntie_nini
Submitted on 2/26/2004
Related FAQ: Medical Informatics FAQ
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I had been taking depo prevera shots the last one I had was 8 months ago and I am now wanting to try and start a family with my husband but I still have not started my cycle and have not become pregnant yet. what should I do? is this normal?

Answer by Nicola Barnett
Submitted on 4/5/2004
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Im also on the 'depo' injection and my doctor said that it can take upto a year after the last injection to be able to have a child, hope this helped. Nicola. nicola1986@hotmail.com

Answer by Shayla_29
Submitted on 4/14/2004
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I took the depo shot over 5 years ago and I still have not become pregnant and I have been trying for over two years. So I do not recommend the SHOT to anyone

Answer by Shygirl6941
Submitted on 5/2/2004
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I was on depo for over 5 years. I have now been off for about 3 1/2 years and I still have not been able to get pregnant. My cycles are really messed up. I talked to my doctor and they told me that I may never be able to have kids again. I really do not recommend the depo shot to anyone.

Answer by meg
Submitted on 5/5/2004
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I was on the Depo shot for five years, and got off to try to get pregnant. It took me exactly one year to the day of my last shot to get pregnant, so its possible. Keep trying

Answer by amanda
Submitted on 5/21/2004
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i was on the depo shot since i was 16 now im married at 22 and would love to start a family but my period still hasnt returned i dont think that shot should even be on the markets anymore

Answer by kellie
Submitted on 5/27/2004
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i was on the shot for 10 years. i am now 43 years old and have extreme osteoporosis. my bones are like a 72 year old woman according to a bone density scan that i had last year. now my teeth are in a mess from cracking, etc. If you have been on this shot, please have a bone density test done.

Answer by Barbara
Submitted on 6/3/2004
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I had been on the shot for 5 years and got pregnant after trying for 3 months.

Answer by marie
Submitted on 6/17/2004
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HI I DO SEEM TO BE QUITE LUCKY I AM 25 AND DO HAVE 2 CHILDREN, I WAS ON DEPO FOR 6 MONTHS THAN CAME OFF AND GOT PREGNANT WITHIN 2 MONTHS, THEN WAS ON DEPO FOR 2 AND A HALF YEARS CAME OFF AND GOT PREGNANT WITHIN 6 WEEKS, I AM BACK ON THE DEPO WHICH I HAVE BEEN ON FOR 3 AND A HALF YEARS, IM NOT SURE WHAT TO DO AS AT THE MOMENT I DONT WANT ANY MORE CHILDREN BUT MAYBE IN THE FUTURE, I DONT WANT MY LUCK TO RUN OUT!!

Answer by Leya
Submitted on 7/4/2004
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Do you get your period if you start the depo shot??? i have been thinking of trying it...and im still not sure about it... help plz!!!

Answer by NICKEY_S6
Submitted on 7/5/2004
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I have been on the depo for 2 yrs now and had gotten off 7 mths ago. My doctor just told me that I will have to get a hysterectomy and I am only 20 yrs old. I advise no one to take this injection, for how good it sounds don't do it

Answer by hayley
Submitted on 7/6/2004
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i was on the depo shot for three and a half years after five years of trying i had fertility treatmnet and now have a daughter, if you are reading this and have not yet had your shot i advise you not to do it!

Answer by MIMI
Submitted on 7/12/2004
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I have one child and was thinking of going on the depo shot. But after reading some of these stories, I think I changed my mind.

Answer by asimmons_punkin
Submitted on 7/12/2004
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I too think that every woman's body react to different situations differently. I have to admit though these are some pretty scary stories and I second guessed myself about taking another shot. I have only one child and I plan on having at least three more. I think I am going to stick with the "shot".

Answer by sapphire
Submitted on 7/13/2004
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I started getting the depo shot when I was 15, I am now engaged to marry at 21 and I would like to start a family. Since I have never been pregnant before I am afraid that it will take me a long time to concieve, but one thing I know for sure is that whatever God has planned for me it will happen, so ladies whatever your situation my be just pray and leave it in God's hands. You are all in my prayers.

Answer by Pegeen
Submitted on 7/14/2004
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I started the shot when I was 15, got off of it when I was 18. I am 22 now, just now got my period back (it shows up whenever it wants to) and No kids yet. So, four years and no pregnancy. I am also getting my hair back. I lost alot of it on the shot. So, Please don't take the shot, It will cause many years of problems.

Answer by QuiQui
Submitted on 7/15/2004
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Pegeen, the shot does not have any side effects which include losing hair. I advise you see you physician for testing. Losing your hair is a symptom of a disease, not a side effect from the depo shot. This is a fact. Please see your doctor immediately.

Answer by Red
Submitted on 8/2/2004
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hey, i've never been on birth control..i have a 2 yrs old and a 3 month old... my first choice was "the vaginal ring" its still my choice after reading all these comments.. i'm not ready for anymore kids now.. maybe in 5 years. but i dont wanna take something that gonna mess up my body..

Answer by Charlijoules
Submitted on 8/3/2004
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I was on the depo for 10 months, I stopped when I noticed how much weight I had gain in that short of a time. I've never had a problem with my weight, even after my 1st child. But my period did come a month after I stopped the shot. I agree with QuiQui. But I agree with everyone else, it's not a good idea to start the shot if you haven't yet, or continue if you already have.

Answer by cindy
Submitted on 8/4/2004
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I have been on the shot for about a 1 year now. I still get my period is that normal.

Answer by ch
Submitted on 8/6/2004
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QuiQui - acutally in your response to Pegeen you mentioned that hair loss is not a side effect of depo however I wanted you to know that every piece of material i have read on the shot has listed hair loss as a possible result of depo

Answer by mystical7284
Submitted on 8/7/2004
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I was on the shot for over 4 years had two miscarriages and then last year I started having major pain in my lower abdomen. Went to have a laproscopy and found that I had endometriosis. The shot has given me a lot of side effects and do not recommend this for anyone.

Answer by mel
Submitted on 8/10/2004
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I was on the SHOT for 5 years and now have been off for 3 and trying to concieve for 2 years with no luck. My cycle is still not regular and now i wander if i will ever have a child. Keep Praying, its in gods hands now.

Answer by libby
Submitted on 8/10/2004
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i was just wondering if anybody could answer a question for me. my last shot was april 28 and my next shot was suppose to be july 21.i didn't go and take because my husband and i want to try and have a baby. a couple of days ago i started going to the bathroom more then usual. i just wondering if it could possibly be that my body is cleaning the shot of my system or what. i hope somebody can answer my question.

Answer by JazzyT
Submitted on 8/12/2004
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I am 25 and I have been on the shot since 98. I recently got off for a couple of months and I got my period back within 2 months of stop taking the shot. I recently just got the shot back. I was a lucky one because I didn't receive any side effects. besides not having a period. I have had friends had loss of hair due to the shot and that is side effect! or gain weight. The weird thing is I gained weight when getting off the shot (20lbs.) and I have only been back on the shot for 2 months and I lost 15lbs. Its a hit or miss when it comes to this shot.

Answer by Bunny
Submitted on 8/14/2004
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i got on depo shot in Nov 2001 and got off on july 2002. I have gained 30 lbs it and i can't stand it. My husband and I have been trying to get pregnat since April 2004.we want a family. please help lord.

Answer by dvdvcrtv
Submitted on 8/14/2004
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well i don't have a answer, but would like a question answerd. my step doughter is 16 years old and i think that she has been talking the depo shot for almost a year. she has been bleeding, having periods alot mabey half of every moth. is this normal??

Answer by shawna
Submitted on 8/17/2004
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I have been on depo for 7 years and have been off it for 8 months and not pregnant yet. Cycles are very long, period is irregular. Hope it doesnt take me too long to conceive.

Answer by kris
Submitted on 8/18/2004
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I've been on birth control for about 3 years but first it was the pill then the patch then the shot. i was only on the shot for 6 months. do you think it will be hard for me to get pregnant?

Answer by personal
Submitted on 8/18/2004
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i have been getting the shot and have not had a period since the start of it i suffer from daily headaches but i feel with my life its the best choice for birth control at moment however with any method of birthcontrol you will most likely have some side affects do i miss my period yes surprisingly i do how ever when i decide to go off the shot i hope i can start my period with out a problem scary thought after readind some of these stories.

Answer by LIZ
Submitted on 8/24/2004
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I HAVE BEEN ON DEPO FOR ALMOST 2 YRS.I HAVE NO MAJOR PROBLEMS WITH THE SHOT.I EXERCISE DAILY,WITH WEIGHTS.I THINK,LIKE SOMEONE SAID,EVERY BODY REACTS DIFFERENTLY.I JUST HOPE WHEN I DO DECIDE TO COME OFF,I DON'T HAVE ANY PROBLEMS

Answer by cin
Submitted on 8/24/2004
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I had my first son very young and then went on the shot. However i met my husband and wanted to start a family. I was off the shot for not even a month and got pregnant. Everyone is different. Smoking or being around smoke also increase your chance of the side effects. So thats also something to think about. I had some complications but nothing to make me go off it forever.I have 3 children now and am thinking of going back on it.

Answer by Ash
Submitted on 8/25/2004
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I WAS ON THE DEPO FOR ABOUT A YEAR AND A HALF AND THEN I STOPPED TAKING IT.I ENDED UP GETTING PREGNANT A YEAR LATER. AFTER I HAD MY KID I GOT ON IT AGAIN. I THINK THE DEPO SHOT IS GREAT IF U JUST KEEP WITH IT. I LIKE THE DEPO SHOT MAINLY BECAUSE U ONLY HAVE TO GO IN EVERY 3 MONTHS TO GET IT AND U DONT HAVE A PERIOD ANYMORE.

Answer by Ashley
Submitted on 8/26/2004
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Yes, I in September of 04 will be my 6th month to be on the depo shot and the first shot (3 months) I did not have my period at all until it was the 2 week grace period when i needed another shot. However, i have been off and on, don't know when i will actually have a regular one, if i have, one day im off the next day im on...then two days later im off..but this never happened the first time i took the shot so i think it is kind of strange..did any of you have any of these problems..if so can you do anything to make your period stop?

Answer by Rebecca
Submitted on 8/27/2004
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I've been taking the "shot" for about four years now, I don't want to get pregnant for quite some time, I'm 23 now, but I would like to know if there have been extensive studies on long term use of this form of birth control.