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Depo Provera and Spotting: What Users Say (Page 5)

Reviews for Depo Provera

Commonly mentioned side effects
  • veg...
  • Taken for 5 to 10 years
  • October 26, 2014

For Birth Control "I have been on the shot for 9 years. I love it. My doctor said I will have to take Xanax and Lexapro with the Depo to even out the mood swings. I am fine, and my moods are good. It is natural that your body has bleeding and spotting, I have it too, but it does not bother me as much as I suffered with PMS, forgetting things all the time, and being bitchy. Now I don't have that. I feel great! Cramps, yes, but not as bad."

10 / 10
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  • J89...
  • October 30, 2015

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I took this birth control about a month ago, and at first I loved it. I was spotting for about a week after I got it, and then I stopped for maybe a month. 11 days ago I started spotting a brown colored period blood. Now it's very prominent, heavy, and red. I've been on this period for 12 days now, and I'm sick of it! I'm very moody and ALWAYS hungry. Always tired and always have headaches. I'm never irritable, and this is not me. I've gained 4 pounds. And yeah, this medicine helps prevent pregnancy, but only because you can't have sex. You're always bleeding and moody! Who wants to have sex under those predicaments? I would never recommend this medicine to anyone! And I sure am never ever getting it again!"

1 / 10
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  • kek...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • March 1, 2016

For Birth Control "I hate this drug! The side effects are awful! I woke up feeling the worst nausea every morning, to the point where I would sometimes vomit. It causes awful headaches. I had a really large clot once, along with killer cramps. My period was still irregular. Yes, it was not as heavy, but it did cause spotting for a majority of the 3 months I was on it. My skin (which happened to be getting clearer!) was breaking out throughout the 3 months and in places that I never used to break out in. Also, I went from being one of the happiest people to majorly depressed with anxiety and mood swings. I now have the worst panic attacks. It will also make your sex life become horrible! Please don't take this! Read all the reviews before you do!"

1 / 10
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Frequently asked questions

  • Ado...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • November 16, 2019

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I took the Depo shot to stop the prolonged periods, and I got another long period, which I know is one of the side effects. But after that, I just kept on spotting and having cramps, and it’s so irritating. Birth control pills didn’t work out, and I don’t know what else to do. I just want my period to be normal again. I feel like this shot is a waste of time, and I don’t know what other birth control I can use to have a regular period again. I started this medication back on July 22, and now it’s November."

2 / 10
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  • Jen...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • October 29, 2019

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I got my first Depo-Provera shot in May of 2019. I had really heavy and painful periods, I was told that the Depo shot would likely stop my period altogether and I wouldn't have to worry about the pain anymore. It's almost November, and I have been spotting every single day since May. I'm due for my third shot in December, and I was told it can take up to a year for your hormones to fully regulate. I have some friends who have gone on it, and they love it, their periods have stopped completely. It seems to have regulated my mood swings because I was a basket case before. But the lack of sex drive and the permanent period might be the most annoying part of my life. Thankfully, I have a ridiculously understanding boyfriend. I'm starting to think the whole idea behind it is that if you just bleed a little bit constantly, then your uterus is completely uninhabitable for an egg, but also you feel disgusting constantly and never want to have sex. Birth control mission accomplished."

1 / 10
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  • Kae...
  • Taken for less than 1 month
  • December 31, 2020

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "In 2012, I started on the Depo, and it was great. No period, but I gained weight, so after a year, I discontinued the use of the injection. Fast forward to March 2020, I decided I would get on the injection again, and it was the worst decision of my life. After I got my first injection, my period stopped for about 45 days, then bam, I started spotting. The spotting turned into full-blown bleeding. I may have a day or two when I'm not bleeding. When I try to have sex, I start to bleed heavily. I went to the doctor, and I've had ultrasounds and exams, and they all came back normal. My doctor put me on a low-dose birth control two weeks ago. I pray that it helps. The doctor suggests that I have an ablation or hysterectomy, which I do not want, but this bleeding has to stop."

1 / 10
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  • Anonymous
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • September 24, 2019

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I was told I should consider taking the depo shot or the mini pill because it would help regulate my period or stop my period from happening. I tried the mini pill first and got my period every two weeks, and so decided I should try the shot. WORST decision ever! I got it a month and a half ago, and for the last two weeks, I've been bleeding every day; I was told I may experience some spotting and warned about the bone density problem but was never told about this side effect. Would not recommend this shot to anyone."

1 / 10
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More FAQ

  • Anonymous
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • September 11, 2016

For Birth Control "I received my first shot in March 2016 after being on the pill for 5 years. At first, I loved the shot. I didn't have to worry about taking it at a set time every day (which I was terrible at), and my period has completely gone away. About a week before I was due for the second shot, I noticed an increase in my acne on my face, chest, and back, as well as some spotting. That was the first week of June 2016, and I haven't stopped spotting since. My acne has also gotten significantly worse, and I have never struggled with acne like this before in my life - even as a teenager. My stress level has increased significantly, and I've gained over 20 pounds since June 2016. I will NOT be going back in November to get my 4th shot."

2 / 10
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  • Mig...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • November 5, 2017

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I was placed on the Depo shot beginning of October (10/3/17) due to uterine fibroid complications: swelling, excessive bleeding, and severe pain. My period started two days after the injection, as scheduled. The OB told me to expect some bleeding for the first month, since I took it so close to my start date. Fair, I thought. However, I have been spotting/bleeding nonstop since that day. Today literally marks 30 days of bleeding. I have also since seen a significant increase in acne, as I typically have clear skin; I am fatigued more than usual. My anxiety has worsened. I will not be getting a second shot."

2 / 10
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  • Sos...
  • September 21, 2016

For Birth Control "I beg you, ladies that are wondering if they should give this a try, to do their research. I'm 24 and have never been on birth control until this year. I asked my doctor for his recommendation, and he said Depo Provera is very effective. I got one shot, which lasts 90 days. At first, it was great, as someone who had bad cramping and heavy periods, it was amazing to not feel pain nor experience heavy bleeding. After about 30 days, that all changed. I started spotting every single day. Every single day! You need a lot of liners, pads, and tampons. It has now been over 100 days, and the spotting has not stopped. Some days are much heavier than others. The drug has worn off, but the effects continue. I obviously never went back for another shot. Don't do it!"

1 / 10
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  • Sca...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • May 11, 2014

For Birth Control "So, I started this because I'm terrible with remembering to take the pill daily. I absolutely LOVED the fact that I only had to go in every 3 months to get it done. The shot was very minor, with little to no pain. For the first three months, it was heavenly, I had no side effects and no period whatsoever. But the road after that was hell. I gained a total of 40 pounds (in 6 months) due to the fact that I was hungry all the time. I was very moody and depressed also. Not only that, but I basically lost all my sex drive, and the majority of the time on the shot I spotted, and when I wasn't spotting, I was on my period."

5 / 10
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  • Can...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • January 11, 2016

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "The reason I decided to get this shot was to stop my periods because they are extremely heavy, and I get such painful cramps I can't walk or eat for days. I got my first shot on October 15, 2015, and the first month was awesome! It stopped my period the same day, and I had no weight gain, no spotting, NOTHING. Then November rolled around, and I started to get very light, super bright pink spotting on occasion but didn't think much of it. That was until a little over a week later when the bleeding got worse and HAS NOT STOPPED SINCE! It has become a full-on period every single day for 2 months straight. I called the local clinic, and they said there is nothing they can do to help stop the bleeding. I am annoyed that I wasted my money on this."

2 / 10
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  • Kay...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • December 18, 2015

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "First time trying the shot. I got the shot in September, and everything was fine. I have never had regular periods (as far as coming when they should). So I thought I would never have a period again. November 13th comes around, and I'm spotting. On the 15th, my period comes. I have been spotting different colors also. Not to mention the stomach and back pains. This whole process has been going on for 5 weeks. I know the pill gives you regular monthly periods, which is something I'd rather deal with. Can't wait to switch back to the pill. No 2nd shot for me!!"

5 / 10
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  • pup...
  • February 22, 2016

For Birth Control "Originally, I was pretty scared to get this because of all the bad side effects I read about, but I decided to give it a try. I got my first shot in July 2015, and I had some bleeding/spotting for about 3 weeks, but I haven't had my period since then. I have had some very minor side effects, some I am not even sure are because of the shot or could be completely unrelated. I have gotten a little more emotional, and it does make me more hungry than usual. But I have been careful to not let this change the way I eat, and I have gained less than 5 pounds overall. But other than that, I don't have to worry about getting pregnant, and I only have to get a shot once every three months. I personally have had a great experience with it."

8 / 10
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  • Bos...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • June 23, 2018

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I took my first shot in April, and the first month I didn't have a period. But in month two, spotting started off and on. Then I started getting huge clots like a miscarriage. Now, in month three, I am bleeding heavily every day and clotting like crazy. It has ruined my sex drive and almost ruined my marriage. I haven't had sex with my husband in 2 months. I've gained 10 pounds. Please do not use this without doing your research. NEVER AGAIN, BIGGEST MISTAKE OF MY LIFE !!!!"

1 / 10
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  • Bec...
  • July 9, 2015

For Birth Control "I love the depo shot. I've been on it for over two years now. I have had no period or spotting until about two years on it. I only spot about four weeks before my next shot and have had a little bleeding lately. Other than that, I really love it. And no weight gain."

9 / 10
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  • TAa...
  • Taken for 1 to 2 years
  • May 13, 2021

For Birth Control "I personally love Depo. I've been on it for 2 years, and I can’t remember the last time I had my period. I sometimes get light spotting when it’s time for my next dose, but that’s only sometimes. I also get really emotional/moody when it’s time for my next dose. I didn’t experience bad weight gain or any other bad side effects, I really don’t want to get off of it. Does anyone know if it’s healthy to stay on past 2 years? My doctor said to take the one-a-day multivitamins if I stay on longer."

10 / 10
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  • Bea...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • May 3, 2021

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I took the Depo Provera injection on December 31st, 2020. At first, I didn't get a period until early March 2021. It lasted for 8 days, after which I started spotting till my next period on April 13th. This is the third week from that time, and the period is still flowing like the first day. I'm in urgent need of help, I can't continue like this."

6 / 10
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  • Ter...
  • May 17, 2015

For Birth Control "I'm just finishing up my first month on the shot, and I can honestly say that it's working well. This is my first birth control I've had, and there have only been a couple of side effects. I spotted for about 5 days twice within the first 3 months, which isn't bad. But I also experienced some vaginal dryness that required additional foreplay, as well as lube at times. Overall, I think it's fine considering I don't have to remember it, and the spotting I heard gets better over time. I'm due for my next shot in a couple of weeks, after which I'll offer another review. So this isn't a bad choice, but with any birth control, there are side effects."

7 / 10
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  • Ksl...
  • Taken for 2 to 5 years
  • November 21, 2017

For Birth Control "I must be one of the few women the shot worked for. I’ve been on it about 4 years. No significant weight gain, no acne, and absolutely no periods or spotting. The reason I got on it to begin with was due to my terrible cramps, and now I have none. I love the shot, honestly."

10 / 10
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  • Ver...
  • January 6, 2017

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I had a D&C in October. Went back for a follow-up November 12, 2016, and the clinic kept trying to convince me to get on birth control. I refused, but then they told me about the depo shot. 'You won't get your period for 3 months, you won't get pregnant, you can have sex without worries.' That's rubbish! I regret ever taking this shot! I started bleeding in December, and it hasn't stopped! It started with brown spotting, and now I'm bleeding bright red heavy blood! This is ridiculous! My boyfriend and I haven't had sex ever since the bleeding because it makes the bleeding worse! What was the point of this injection?! I am scared I will never stop bleeding. I called the clinic, and they said I should stop bleeding once it wears off (January 27)."

1 / 10
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  • Ado...
  • Taken for 6 months to 1 year
  • March 1, 2020

For Birth Control "This shot has been horrible for me. I thought it would stop my periods or at least make them lighter. But I have been spotting that kinda looks like a period, but it’s not. Some days I don’t bleed, and it comes back all the time. I bleed almost every day, and I always have cramps, and I’m miserable. I’ve had this shot for seven months, and it should have stopped by now. Never getting this shot again. Biggest regret."

2 / 10
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  • Ove...
  • Taken for 1 to 6 months
  • February 18, 2016

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I received the depo shot in September 2015. I did bleed for the first month. The following month I began spotting. I began having a full period in December 2015. It is now February 2016, and I am still bleeding. Nonstop! Help!"

6 / 10
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  • tzi...
  • May 3, 2009

For Abnormal Uterine Bleeding "I first started Depo-Provera due to irregular and heavy menstruation. The first month was the worst, with several side effects that did go away after the second shot. I had severe breast tenderness, with some lymph node swelling, mood swings, and constant spotting for the first month. After the initial shot, I never had a period again, barely any spotting, and felt well. I did go off the shot for a while, and now I am on it again. I am having no side effects except for the initial moodiness and decreased interest in sex. But I would still recommend this product for someone! No periods - sign me up."

8 / 10
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  • Ray...
  • January 26, 2020

For Endometriosis "I was put on the Depo shot a year ago to help treat my extremely painful periods. It stopped my menstrual cycle, so for a year I've been able to avoid the terrible pain I was in every month. However, the side effects have been awful. My whole face is covered in painful acne, and I didn't have this problem before the shot. I've experienced terrible headaches, I've spotted the whole year I've been on it, and had other discharge as well. My anxiety is through the roof, and it has worsened my depression. My advice is to stay far away from the shot if you can avoid it. I can say it's been nice not having the terrible pain endometriosis was causing me every month, but the other side effects are almost just as bad. I just had my last shot and will never take it again."

2 / 10
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Reviews may be edited to correct grammar/spelling or remove inappropriate content. Reviews appearing to come from parties with a vested interest are not published. This information is not intended to endorse any medication and should not replace the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals.