Is it normal to have irregular period, ovarian pain and brown spots with Depo shots?

Question

Hello doctor,

I was wondering is it is normal to have an irregular period after stopping the Depo shot. My last shot was administered sometime before three months (I do not remember the date). I had taken two shots but decided to stop because I kept bleeding and spotting while on the shot. I experienced bad cramping and heavy bleeding last month and it has been a month since then and now I have only experienced ovarian pain and brown discharge. I am not sure what this means.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

As you mentioned, it is a known side effect of Depo shot to have irregular spotting or occasional bleeding too. And usually, the effect of the Depo Provera shot last maximum up to three months only (depending on the dose). The present experience of heavy bleeding and cramps may not be related to your Depo shots, it may be due to some underlying cause. So, I would like to know why was Depo shot advised for you? Was it only for contraception (birth control) or was it for any complaints like excessive bleeding and cramps during your periods (which may indicate a process called endometriosis)? Irregular bleeding may indicate some underlying hormonal disturbances which need to be evaluated. I would also like to know if you have any recent weight gain, excess unwanted facial hair, acne problems, scalp hair loss, headaches, visual disturbances, etc.? These may give some clue in finding a reason for this irregular pattern of bleeding. Also, if possible you could share some reports of your previous investigations like ultrasound to help me in guiding you for further evaluation.