I have been on the depo shot for over 12 years. I have no health issues. I am 36 and the depo shot is the only medication I take on a regular basis. I think it is the best thing ever. I had severe endometriosis (2 surgeries before age 22) before I had my child over 12 years ago. I knew I did not want anymore children and was horrified at the thought of having a period again after suffering for so many years. I have not had a period in over 12 years and I thank my doctor everytime I see him! So remember there are horror stories with everything. You have to consider your situation and health and decide what is best for you personally.
Prior to depo, my periods had always been regular, never missed one from age 13 to 38. I took the depo shot for about a year. When I stopped, it took about 8 months to get my period again. I started the depo shot for the second time, received two shots that was supposed to last 3 months in between. I never went back for my shot after the 2nd shot. It's been two years now since I've had my last shot, and I've only had one period in that time. I just found out from my Dr. that my bloodwork shows I'm in early menopause. I'll be 43 in a month. I have no scientific facts, but I'm a healthy, athletic, fit, young 42 year old... have always been healthy, and I really believe this shot is what put me into early menopause. I've never known for sure that I wanted kids and always thought that when I meet the right person, I may decide to share that with them. Thanks to depo, that option has been taken away. If you are someone who knows you eventually want to have kids. I would strongly advise you to seek other birth control options. Do not risk it with depo!
I would honestly say they were not, Even though I haven't had anything major go wrong, I have seen a lot of stories from women online and have not seen a positive one yet. BUT every body reacts differently. I have been trying to concieve and haven't been able to, they say it can take up to 2 years... If you are thinking about possibly having one within that I would say NO, anything other MAYBE.
OMG, i am exactly the same, i took it young as offered by GP, 18, i am now almost 37,unable to ovulate or concieve has oesteo bone loss also, which is irriversible, and since being off it, some symptoms, not to mentions extremely painful breasts
I was hoping there was someone out there that had been on it as long as I have. I have been in it and quit to have my two sets of twins. I was pregnant after missing one shot, and had no trouble getting pregnant another time. I can always tell when I'm getting close to my due date, because I menstruate for a week before. No problems to speak of so far.... i do lose hair, but I have really long hair so that's unproven whether it's excessive or not. I love it and feel safer using this than oral contrceptives, which are really dangerous for anyone over 30.
I was on it for a little over a year and the periods were non stop for the first two shots ( about 6 months) itd be for a few days without and the rest of the month i was on. im off now and they are so irregular . i do NOT recommend !
I have been on the Depo shot for over 2 years. I have gained a lot of weight, but mainly to poor diet and no exercise. When I have tried to lose weight in the past While on the shot, I have so I really think it's more me lacking in paying attention. I have no periods, a few spotting episodes the first year. The only thing that concerns me now is that I have horrible joint pain. In my arms and hips..in the back above buttocks. So when I try and go for a walk for more than 20 mins. It's excruciating. I have no idea if it's weight related or now thinkng maybe this shot. I am now on a good exercise and diet routine...newly started. I will see if things change.