Is the Depo Causing This?
Question
Hi, I am 15 years old. I just recently have been given my first shot of Depo-Provera Birth Control. I am extremely worried however, because I have only been sexually active for a little over a month now with my boyfriend, and since I have received the Depo Povera shot, during foreplay, I bleed, sometimes heavily from the vagina. I do not understand this because it does not happen as a period, or any other time during the day, unless we are foreplaying. I have no spotting at all throughout the day, only when we fool around. I do go to a gynecologist, and am planning on bringing this up to her in my next visit, but in the meantime, is this a normal side effect of Depo Provera? It’s a huge inconvenience. If you could contact me as soon as possible it would be greatly appreciated, and a huge help. Thank you so much! Jenna
Answer
Yes, you must bring up the bleeding with your GYN. The cause could be an infection, birth control side effect or something more serious. Since you are asking about your menstrual cycle and the abnormal bleeding events that are taking place, I am deeply concerned because your young body is preparing for motherhood someday, and you are putting this future possibility at risk with your present behavior.
The side effects of this type of birth control can vary from woman to woman. Not only could you possibly become sterile (the worst scenario and never able to carry a child to birth) but your own personal health could be affected because of having different partners now who may carry unknown diseases they can pass on to you which could compromise your health.
Growing up with the acceptance of a recreational attitude regarding sexual intercourse is a challenge for young women and men today but it isn’t impossible if you do not want to live this lifestyle. Keep your goal in front of you of the kind of life you want to have with a loving husband and children around you when you are ready. Pray and ask for God’s strength to keep you healthy for them and yourself.
Natural Family Planning will teach you to respect your body and understand the great privilege you have to bear a child. You will learn how to evaluate and maintain your reproductive health. Keep this in mind.
I am praying for you.
Judy Wilmurt
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