What to expect?

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-06-2006
What to expect?
4
Fri, 10-27-2006 - 11:47pm

Hi board,

I have been on the depo shot for almost 4 years. I was supposed to have my next injection this past Wednesday, but decided for health reasons NOT to get it. Are there significant side effects or issues that I have to deal with after being on it for so long? Would it be wise to go back on it in the near future? Im not really sexually active, as the relationship Im in is coming to an end, but it would be nice to be protected. Also, I do not look forward to the return of my period. *Shudders* Any suggestions, stories, or tips?

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-12-2002
Sat, 10-28-2006 - 4:50am

The depo shot causes loss of bone density, and is no longer recommended for use for more than 2 years, unless there is no other alternative.

 


 


iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Sun, 10-29-2006 - 5:59pm

Hi,

I am not the original poster, and as a matter of fact I just found this board. I too have been on Depo for almost 4 years. I have read about how you shouldn't take it for more than 2 years b/c of bone density issues, but what are the other alternatives besides a hysterectomy? I have severe cramps with nausea etc... without bc and with most pills (I can't say all, but I have tried a few). I most probably have endometreosis(sp?) but as I didn't have insurnace until recently my dr and I haven't pursued major testing. I had norplants until I they reached their 5 year mark. The Norplants use the same hormone as the depo, but for some reason I still got periods with the norplants. The cramps weren't as bad, but still required a good bit of advil or Anaprox. Any ideas on what I should switch too? I really LOVE not having periods and not having to remember the pill every morning, but I know i need to pay attention to my long term health. I want to do my research before my next dr's appointment so I can be prepared.

Thanks,

Suzie

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iVillage Member
Registered: 10-29-2003
Sun, 10-29-2006 - 6:23pm
I was on the Depo shot for 11 years. While I too enjoyed not having my period, I felt that the shot, health wise, was not doing me any good. Within the first 6 months after I stopped taking the shot I lost 40 pounds, stopped losing my hair, and not only regained my sex drive, but it came back ten fold. It has been a little over a year now and so far I have lost about 60 pounds and have not noticed any adverse affects from being on the shot for so long. As for finding a new method of birth control that is equally effective, I have not found one yet. All I can say is stick with condomns for now, and if you find a good birth control let me know too. Good Luck!
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sun, 10-29-2006 - 7:05pm

Hi mom2ga, welcome to the Birth Control Board!


      Jill