For women seeking reliable birth control, Depo-Provera offers a convenient alternative to daily pills. While this injectable contraceptive effectively prevents pregnancy during use, many women express concerns about its long-term effects on fertility. The good news is that temporary infertility from Depo-Provera typically resolves within two years of stopping treatment, and permanent effects are extremely rare. If an injury does occur, a Depo-Provera brain tumor attorney with the Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC may be able to help.
How Does Depo-Provera Prevent Pregnancy?
Depo-Provera prevents pregnancy in multiple ways. The injection contains progestin, which thickens the cervical mucus. This creates a barrier that blocks sperm from reaching any eggs that might be released. Additionally, the hormone signals the pituitary gland to stop the ovaries from releasing eggs. This ensures that no eggs are available for fertilization. The shot provides reliable contraception for approximately 14 weeks, though healthcare providers typically schedule injections every 12-13 weeks to maintain consistent protection.
What Happens When You Stop Taking Depo-Provera?
After discontinuing Depo-Provera, most women experience a temporary delay before they can get pregnant again. As the medication gradually clears from your system, ovulation typically resumes within six months to one year. According to the manufacturer’s instructions, most women who wish to conceive can do so within 18 months of their final Depo-Provera injection.
The temporary infertility period can vary; some patients regain fertility very quickly, while others may experience delays for up to two years. Healthcare providers recommend stopping Depo-Provera approximately one year before attempting pregnancy to allow adequate time for the body to resume normal reproductive function. While this waiting period may feel frustrating, it’s important to remember that the contraceptive’s effects are temporary, and long-term fertility typically remains unaffected.
When Should You See a Doctor After Stopping Depo-Provera?
If you discontinue Depo-Provera and develop concerning symptoms, speak to a doctor as soon as possible. The following may indicate a more serious underlying issue:
- Your menstrual cycle remains irregular within two years after your last injection.
- Pregnancy hasn’t occurred within 12 months of ovulation returning, or six months if you are 35 or older.
Another major issue associated with Depo-Provera is the development of meningiomas, a type of brain tumor. A 2024 British Medical Journal study revealed that using Depo-Provera for over one year increases the risk of intracranial meningiomas by 5.6 times. Although these tumors are not usually cancerous, they can lead to other health issues and may require surgical removal. If you experience persistent headaches, vision changes, or other neurological symptoms after using Depo-Provera, go to the doctor as soon as you can.
When Should You Contact a Depo-Provera Lawsuit Attorney?
If you have developed a meningioma following extended Depo-Provera use, you may have grounds for legal action. Drug manufacturers bear responsibility for adequately warning patients about serious health risks associated with their products. When these warnings are insufficient, affected patients have grounds to file lawsuits for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
An attorney from Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC can help you pursue a lawsuit against Pfizer, the creator of Depo-Provera, and help you recover the compensation that you deserve. Our firm will carefully evaluate your medical history, gather essential evidence, and build a compelling case to hold the manufacturer accountable. Contact us today at (800) 220-0984 for a free case consultation and begin your journey to justice.