I have been using Depo Provera for four years. In addition to rapid weight gain I have also noticed that my teeth and gums appear to be raised and discolored. I was wondering if it could be an effect of the Depo? Since this is something new to me because I have always had perfect teeth and gums. Is there any evidence to suggest that the Depo is responsible for this? Do you know of any other woman using Depo with the same complaint?
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Can Depo be causing my gum problem?
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Last Updated: July 7, 2013
Whenever a woman is first given the Depo-provera shot, she should have also been given a booklet that describes all the side effects. Unfortunately, most doctors do not provide this information, even though the booklet is supposed to be given to every Depo-provera user.
The weight gain you have experienced is related to the effects of provera. Although the manufacturer of this chemical insists the weight gain is small, my clinical experience is that the weight gain is significant, and continuous. I am not aware of any reports of gingivitis (gum inflammation), due to using the Depo. However, this is seen in pregnancy. I recomend that you have a pregnancy test. I also strongly encourage you to stop using this contraceptive. It is very destructive to the function of the reproductive system, and there are some women who never have a return to fertility, after using it. Use of the Depo-provera shot is also known to cause mood disorders, such as depression.
Gail Mc Naughton
The weight gain you have experienced is related to the effects of provera. Although the manufacturer of this chemical insists the weight gain is small, my clinical experience is that the weight gain is significant, and continuous. I am not aware of any reports of gingivitis (gum inflammation), due to using the Depo. However, this is seen in pregnancy. I recomend that you have a pregnancy test. I also strongly encourage you to stop using this contraceptive. It is very destructive to the function of the reproductive system, and there are some women who never have a return to fertility, after using it. Use of the Depo-provera shot is also known to cause mood disorders, such as depression.
Gail Mc Naughton
Answered By:
Gail McNaughton, NP
Gail McNaughton, NP, is a Nurse Practitioner
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