Depo concerns/side effects
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| Thu, 03-18-2004 - 1:44pm |
-my hair is falling out (not bad but enought to notice)
-I have been having cramps every day
-I have been spotting for 3 straight weeks, and it seems to be getting heavier
-I have been getting heartburn (which I have only had 3 times in my life and that was with all three of my pregnancies)
-I have gained 13lbs in ONE month. Fortunately, I am very thin so I have no problem hididng it but I hardly gained that when I was pregnant!
-Dizziness! I have to hold onto things sometimes because I am so dizzy!
-Worst of all, I have noticed a slight fishy smell down there. It isn't too bad but I noticed it and I certainly don't want my b/f to notice too. I don't know if it is from the shot or because I have been spotting for 3 weeks. That is my biggest concern of all of my side effects. I recently left my husband and this new b/f is the first person I've been with (other than husband) for the last 7 years. I am pretty sure he is clean but there is always that what if.....
I just feel so....pregnant. That is what these side effects feel like. I am miserable, and embarassed!
Anyone else heard of this happening?! Help!

Depo is a very powerful progestin and can have some pretty harsh side effects.
Irregular bleeding is a common side effect during the first few months on Depo and weight gain while on Depo is common also. See: http://www.contraceptiononline.org/contrareport/article01.cfm?art=256 You might want to talk with you doc about what you are experiencing. The odor might indicate a bacterial infection. It would be a good idea to insist on using condoms until you and bf are tested and found free of STIs. Post and let us know how you’re doing, ok?
Good luck (((hugs)))
Jill
Doc said some people just don't respond well to the shot and suggested I start something else. I've been on the patch for 3 weeks now and am equally miserable from different symptoms. I'm trying a pill next. Here's hoping.
If you want to ask your doc about the estrogen pills, they do work for some people. Otherwise, I'd suggest a different type of BC.
Good luck.
I called my doctor and insisted that I stay on hold until I speak to someone. She is giving me the Estrodial today (thank you!) and I have an appt on Monday because they think the shot caused a bacterial infection (thanks, again!) You guys are awesome.