for the ladies

Hi there everyone, I am extremely depressed today, I got on the scale and had gained 3lbs. I couldn't believe it, I have been eating real well, and walking every evening. The only thing that is different is 3 weeks ago I went and got a Depo shot for birth control. I have had the heaviest period for almost a week now with terrible cramps. I had been on birth control pills for 20 years prior to my surgery, and had light periods that lasted only a day or two, so this is miserable. Has anyone else used Depo shots for birth control? I would appreciate any insight on this. Thanks so much, Lynn

Lynn, I went to GYN two weeks ago...he said Depo has high estrogen levels and may cause weight gain. In fact it is notorious for making you gain weight! He put me on seasonale...the 4 period a year pill. You may be having a heavey period due to the extra estrogen....pills are low in estrogen. When I was on Depo my period was heavey and had horrible cramps too. Hope that little bit of info helps. Happy losing, Brooke

Lynn, It's the Depo shot. My friends all had excessively heavy periods for weeks and gained lots of weight. Talk to your GYN about another method. Good Luck, Chauncine

Lynn, I also think that maybe the shot has caused you to gain the extra couple of pounds. Right after I had my daugther (eight years ago) I got on the shot. I was not able to get rid of any of any of the weight I had gained during pregnancy. However, I continued to use the shot, and I have taken sice surgery. I have been one of the lucky ones that did not have a period at all with the shot, which is the only reason why I get it. You may want to speak to your doctor about the heavy flow, see if there is anything else you can take. Melissa

Thanks so much for your comments, I was afraid that the Depo caused my weight gain, I hope that there won't be anymore, since there isn't much I can do about it for 3 months. I would love to go back on the birth control pill, but my surgeon said I shouldn't take them because of the malabsorbtion. Anyway it has been great being able to share with all of you. thanks again, Lynn

I've never used it, but have read on these boards that it has caused weight gain for many women. Good luck. Sherry

You want to look into the Nuva Ring. Pills are useless for us because of malabsorbtion due to the new pouch. Good Luck, I am going to look into the affects of the Nuva Ring myself.