Feeling pregnant, but I'm not pregnant

[ChelseaHicks]

For the last month I have been feeling like I am pregnant. The first day started with some mild menstrual like cramping followed by some bleeding. I have been on the depo-provera shot for 7 yrs. never missing one. I have not bled at all through those 7 yrs. I have been spotting off and on since then. I have also had headaches, lower back pain, severe painful bloating, occasional mild diziness and my stomach just seems to have taken on a life of its own. My pants are getting tighter around the belly to the point where I can't even button them anymore and if I do it leads to stomach pain and discomfort. I took a pregnancy test today and it was negetive (which I figured it would be), but I just wanted to make sure and rule that out. So where should I go from here?

[ChelseaHicks]

I know about the weight gain associated with Depo, as I said I've been on it for a constant  7 yrs. and was on it prior to that even. I haven't had any weight gain, I just have the bloating that comes and goes and my belly is getting bigger. I am short 5' 3" and weigh about 140lbs. my body is average build, not skinny, not fat, but my belly sticks out like I am about 6 months pregnant. I know I am NOT pregnant, but curious to know what may be the problem. I went to 2 or 3 different Drs. years ago for the bloating and they found nothing so I have never gone back. The bloating subsided for about a year and now it has returned a long with the other symptoms I mentioned in my prior post. I may ask to visit with my Dr. when I go for my next shot. Thank you for your reply.

[Clysta]

Even if you've not had problems with it in the past, it's possible Depo is much of what you're feeling, especially the stomach bloating/weight gain. Depo is infamous in causing women to gain 5-10+ pounds, especially if you've been on it for a long period of time. See your doctor and request they do a blood test. If it's negative, ask them if they can do additional testing to determine the cause.