Coming off Depo

StephanyJ20 · Joined: 29 Sep 2005 Posts: 1

I am 42 years old and was on Depo for 8 years after a laporoscopy for endometriosis. The Depo was such a big help for me since my periods stopped and I had no painful cramping, bleeding, etc. In January I learned about the black box warning and had also been experiencing some breakthrough bleeding associated with prolonged Depo use so I agreed to stop the Depo. Last month I had my first period - although it was light, I did have some cramping and all the bad memories associated with the endometriosis came back (including my divorce). Right now I think I'm ovulating and am having some cramping, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. I am not using birth control pills or the patch because of side effects in the past. So, I'm just curious to know what symptoms women who've come off of Depo have experienced and if anyone who has used it to stave off endometriosis has the same fears as I do once they stop the Depo.

Thanks!

Leesa · Joined: 20 Nov 2005 Posts: 5 Location: Lawrence, KS

I was put on depo (couldn't take the estrogen in the pill) due to severe cramping- ended up on codeine for pain-, heavy flow- often iron deficient, and they thought I had endometriosis. I've been on it for almost 10 years. I only just found out about the bone density loss a couple months ago. I got a bone density test in October and I had bone loss. I have just quit the depo and I do not know what I am going to go through. I sympathize with your situation. How long did it take to get your periods again?