Need alternative to Depo

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-28-2006
Need alternative to Depo
13
Tue, 05-09-2006 - 5:33pm

I just recently found out that Depo Provera causes significant bone loss/calcium depletion in women who have been on it for a prolonged period of time. I also found out that while the bones loss is reversible for most, it's more than likely not reversible for women who started on Depo between 18 and 21. I was 20 when I started, and lemme tell ya - I'm PEEVED that not one of my doctors mentioned this.

While I'm still young enough to do something about it (30), I want to switch my method of BC so that I can start trying to gain back some of that lost calcium. The problem is, I've really come to love and rely on not having a period, not gaining weight, and not having my already sensitive and bad skin get any worse.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Is there a method that you've used that you love/hate? I already know that a daily pill will be a tough one for me - I've never had to worry about the routine of taking a daily pill before, so it's not likely I'll get into the groove of it anytime soon.

Thanks in advance for the advice!

Amy

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iVillage Member
Registered: 04-28-2006
Mon, 05-15-2006 - 12:09pm

Thank you everyone for your great feedback.

I have not spoken to my doctor just yet. The day I posted my original question I had received my latest shot, so I have at least three months to do my research and go back to my doctor with a (relatively) informed decision.

I've made up my mind that I will be switching methods, regardless of if this warning is the FDA being overly-cautious or not. I've been on depo on and off for 10 years, and I think it's best in general to just switch things up.

I'm glad to hear that there are a lot of women out there who have had a positive experience with the IUD. Admittedly, this method had really turned me off due to old-school horror stories. I will speak with my doctor about potential risks, but I think it's a solid toss-up between that method and the Seasonale pill.

Again, thanks for the great advice and support.

Amy

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-15-2006
Mon, 05-15-2006 - 6:43pm
Please whatever birth control you decide on, get off of the depo. I started taking the depo at the age of 26 years old with only a 2 year break in between and I have just recently found out that I have full blown osteoporosis. I just turned 38 years old. I would recommend that if you have been on it for a long period of time go have a bone density scan...
iVillage Member
Registered: 06-10-2004
Tue, 05-16-2006 - 3:39am

This thread has come along at a good time for me as well. I've also been on Depo, with some breaks, for about 10 years. Recently, I've been undergoing tests for what appears to be a deteriorated spinal disc which my doctor says should be impossible at my age (30) but suddenly I recalled the Depo warnings and now I'm wondering if this is the cause.

Consequently, I'm also looking to get off of it as soon as possible, and also looking for alternatives that might resemble the great benefits I enjoyed on Depo. I appreciated all the information you've all provided. The ring seems like it could be a good solution, especially with the option of using them back-to-back.

Just wanted to say thanks!

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