How irregular should your periods be after stopping the depo shot?

[Cowgirl89]

I received my first depo provera shot in march 2010, my last shot was in april 2011. While I was on Depo I had a period every 3 months right before I was due for my next shot. I was due for my last shot in July but Decided I wanted to stop taking birth control. I got my period as expected and then didn't get the shot. A week later i got my period again, and then about 2 or 2 1/2 weeks i got my period again. Now it has been about 5 weeks without a period. What should i expect, and when should i be thinking i could be pregnant? Thanks for your help!

[annabanana1985]

Hi, I'm hoping you can help me?

After having a T.O.P in March this year a chose to change my method of contraception to the injection, after my next appointment was due in June I decided not to continue with this method of contraception. Since then I have had constant bleeds with only a few days of the month when I don't.  

Can you advise me how long it will be before my periods return to normal e.g one every month? I would go to my doctor but I have a feeling that they will just fob me off. It's really starting to get me down and it's taking its toll on my sex life :(

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Depo-Provera is a long-acting progestin (hormone) form of birth control. If you stop getting Depo-Provera injections, your period usually returns within 3 to 10 months but sometimes it may take 12-18 mths.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.