Desperately seeking answers - Depo Provera Causing Hair Loss?

All that you need to know and do about your hair loss.

Desperately seeking answers - Depo Provera Causing Hair Loss?

by Becky
(North Carolina)

Depo Provera Side Effects

I am 27 years old, and recently married. I have always shed a lot of hair, mostly when blow drying, but then again, I had a lot of hair to shed. About three and a half months ago, I noticed that my pony tail seemed a lot thinner than usual. I dismissed it at the time, but a couple of weeks later I started shedding really bad. I merely touched my head and would lose 6-10 hairs at at time (and I was a hair-runner, constantly pushing it back), and this was merely weeks before my wedding.

I was distraught - I didn't know what to do. I became terrified to wash or even comb it. I didn't have insurance at the time, so I couldn't see a doctor. I started to wonder if Depo-Provera, which I had started about five months earlier, could be the culprit. I noticed in the pamphlet that came from the pharmacist that hair loss was one of the side effects, but I couldn't find much information about it. I skipped my third shot, which would have been at the end of July.

About two weeks later, the hair loss seemed to slow for a few days, and then it came back with a vengeance, and hasn't let up yet. I did get to see a general practitioner last week, and he ran some blood tests and said my thyroid is normal and everything else looks ok, but he is sending me to a dermatologist nonetheless - but that won't be for another few weeks. I don't know how much more of this I can take - I estimate I've lost close to half my hair.

I can't stand to see it everywhere - all over the floor, the tub, and tangled in the vacuum everytime I clean. Not to mention the way it feels falling out when I don't pull it back (which I know I shouldn't do but I can't style it any other way) I'm down to washing it only every third day, and I haven't blow dried in months. It seems to be coming from all over, it seems a little worse in the front but that might just be because its the only place I can actually see. I've read a lot about telogen effluvium but sometimes I feel like I'm even losing too much for that.

Has anyone had anything like this from Depo-Provera? Is there anything that I should be sure to ask the dermatologist when I can finally go? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!!!!

Editor's Comments

Dear Becky,
What it seems to me that you are likely to be suffering from body stress and hormonal imbalances when taking Depo Provera. This particular drug which is a contraceptive medication for controlling unwanted pregnancy can indeed cause side effects complimenting to hair loss. This drug actually manipulates your body hormones and behaviour to prevent follicular development. If you are new to this drug it can cause adverse reaction like headaches, nervousness, mood changes, bloating, hot flashes, decreased interest in sex, breast tenderness, acne, hair loss, and back ache.

Depo will usually lasts in your body for at least 6-8 months after the shot for it to complete go away. During this time, the side effects like sudden hair loss can continue till your body returns to its normal state. As your hair won't fall off immediately, it will usually take 3 months after the shot before you see accelerated hair loss. Since you stated that you have taken Depo in the last 6 months and now you are facing with a great loss of hair, I can put my bet that Depo is the culprit.

Another possible culprit could be emotional stress and physical stress like preparation for the wedding and the psychological reaction towards the sudden hair loss that is all contributing to the condition. What I can say that your hair currently is very fragile and you will need to relax up. You should discontinue Depo immediately and wait for the hair loss to clear up. As Depo will stay in your body for 6-8 months after the last injection, expect some more hair loss to continue further in a reduced rate 3 months after. Your regular body levels should return and your hair loss's rate should normalized.

What you can do now for the meantime is to take Vitamin B Complex, Folic Acid and Iron supplements (which can be reduced by Depo) that are great for your hair growth. Try Minoxidil for Women and also if you can, take Viviscal, which can tremendously stimulates hair growth. You need to get back control of your life and stop worrying as it won't stop hair loss. Give yourself 3 months to survey the situation before seeing a derma while considering these treatments.

If you need a temporary solution, cut your hair as short as possible to reduce the impact of hair loss. It's also the best way to manage your hair.

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Desperately seeking answers - Depo Provera Causing Hair Loss?

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Jul 13, 2010
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after depo- 50 lbs and losing hair - tons of hair!
by: Amy

I took my last injection in Feb 2010 and was due for the next in May 2010. It is now July and no sign of a period. I decided to get off the shot because I took it for 10 years and am now almost 32 years old. I went to a doctor and he told me that some women gain 15 lbs a year on depo and that it was notorious for weight gain. I am 100 lbs over weight and believe this has something to do with it since i have been walking 3-5 days a week for most of the last 10 years but have still put on weight that was almost impossible to lose. I have never had bad side effects in the last 10 years on the shot. But now, 2 months after i was supposed to get a shot and 5 months after my last injection, for about a month, I've noticed that my hair is falling out at a rapid rate. I have researched this on the net and found that this is a common side effect of going off (or on) the shot. I feel like I might have a nervous break down when i see the amounts of hair i am losing! It's super scary. However, I guess it means that my body might be going through some changes? My question is, when will i stop losing hair?!!! I dont care about getting a period, but that would be nice to get over with too.

I saw this site too: http://womenshealth.about.com/lw/Health-Medicine/Womens-Health/Hair-Loss-in-Women.htm

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Jul 13, 2010
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Submitted by: Amy

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I took my last injection in Feb 2010 and was due for the next in May 2010. It is now July and no sign of a period. I decided to get off the shot because I took it for 10 years and am now almost 32 years old. I went to a doctor and he told me that some women gain 15 lbs a year on depo and that it was notorious for weight gain. I am 100 lbs over weight and believe this has something to do with it since i have been walking 3-5 days a week for most of the last 10 years but have still put on weight that was almost impossible to lose. I have never had bad side effects in the last 10 years on the shot. But now, 2 months after i was supposed to get a shot and 5 months after my last injection, for about a month, I've noticed that my hair is falling out at a rapid rate. I have researched this on the net and found that this is a common side effect of going off (or on) the shot. I feel like I might have a nervous break down when i see the amounts of hair i am losing! It's super scary. However, I guess it means that my body might be going through some changes? My question is, when will i stop losing hair?!!! I dont care about getting a period, but that would be nice to get over with too. I saw this site too: http://womenshealth.about.com/lw/Health-Medicine/Womens-Health/Hair-Loss-in-Women.htm

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Jun 07, 2010
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It makes me feel pregnant
by: Amy

OMG! I wish I never got this shot....It makes me feel pregnant.I don't recommend this shot to anyone....

May 28, 2010
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Another update
by: Becky (Original Poster)

I saw a trichologist (scalp and hair loss specialist) last week and here's the scoop: A number of birth control options, including depo provera, the pill in its many forms, implants, etc will alter the androgen levels in your system - even after you stop taking them. Higher adrogens = hair loss, breakouts, unwanted hair in other areas (go figure!) So anyhow, it looks like my hormone levels were altered just enough to start causing genetic hair loss :-( I had a bunch of blood tests done this week to check for vitamin deficiencies and my hormone levels. At this point I don't want to take any medication to help control the hormones because I want to have a baby soon, but there is still some hope. I am going to purchase a system to do low light laser treatments at home. I've really looked into this and it seems to have the best results if done as directed...it increases blood flow to the scalp to reduce shedding and stimulates the follicles that are dying to produce healthy hair. Its not a cure but it will definitely S--L--O--W the process down dramatically. I'll post results when (positive thinking!) I see them.

May 27, 2010
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help
by: Tracey

Reading through you comments has made me feel really depressed iv been on the Depo for 6 months and have lost half of my hair iv also had blood tests and all came back perfect so i will not have my next shot. it would be nice to hear some good storys so if over time your hair does grow back please take the time to let us all no and give us a bit of hope.

Apr 27, 2010
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hair loss with depo provera
by: Robin

I am 25 years old and have been using depo provera as my birth control for 2 years now. For someone who was extremely forgetful with the pill, I had decided to try depo provera because of how simple and convienent it was. About 18 months ago (give or take) I started to notice every time I showered that there was hair around the tub more than usual. Ofcourse there is always some hair in the drain after a shower but this amount seemed peculiar.

Almost surprising. I color my hair a lot so I directly contributed this loss to that reason. So I didn't color my hair for a whole year. However the hair kept falling out. The moment when it really hit me just how serious this hair problem was was just this morning. I took a shower, removed the clump of hair from the drain(which I have to do now every time I shower) and was blow drying my hair when I noticed all the hair on my bathroom floor. It was ridiculous. But when I started styling my hair is when I really freaked out. The hair on the back of my head was so thin that I actually could see my scalp poking through. I have been using Nioxin for 2 months now to help with my thinning hair and even though I do think it is helping, I don't think it's going to fix the problem. I started to trace back in my mind why this might be happening. I looked at some photos of myself from a few years back and some more recent ones and made sort of a time line to see where my hair begins to appear thinner.

That's when it dawned on me that my hair loss could be the result of when I started using depo provera.According to photos, my hair is noticebly thinner about 6 months after I started using the shot.

I was never told this was a side effect so that's why I got online to see if anyone else had expierenced the same thing. I feel a lot better for doing so. I was beginning to think I was going crazy or something. But now I believe this is exactly why I am losing my hair.

My concern now is this:

1) Is my hair going to stop falling out once I stop getting the shot? and

2) how am I going to find a birth control that worked for me better than Depo? Because even though I am FURIOUS about this hair loss business, I liked using depo.

I never gained weight, my moods have been a lot better, and I never worried about getting pregnant. It completely stopped my menstrual bleeding altogether, and I felt secure knowing there was no chance I was going to get pregnant. So what are some other good options???? My hair is my one vice so I want to take care of it, but I don't want to be a mommy right now either. So what do I do?.........

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Apr 27, 2010
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Submitted by: Robin

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I am 25 years old and have been using depo provera as my birth control for 2 years now. For someone who was extremely forgetful with the pill, I had decided to try depo provera because of how simple and convienent it was. About 18 months ago (give or take) I started to notice every time I showered that there was hair around the tub more than usual. Ofcourse there is always some hair in the drain after a shower but this amount seemed peculiar. Almost surprising. I color my hair a lot so I directly contributed this loss to that reason. So I didn't color my hair for a whole year. However the hair kept falling out. The moment when it really hit me just how serious this hair problem was was just this morning. I took a shower, removed the clump of hair from the drain(which I have to do now every time I shower) and was blow drying my hair when I noticed all the hair on my bathroom floor. It was ridiculous. But when I started styling my hair is when I really freaked out. The hair on the back of my head was so thin that I actually could see my scalp poking through. I have been using Nioxin for 2 months now to help with my thinning hair and even though I do think it is helping, I don't think it's going to fix the problem. I started to trace back in my mind why this might be happening. I looked at some photos of myself from a few years back and some more recent ones and made sort of a time line to see where my hair begins to appear thinner. That's when it dawned on me that my hair loss could be the result of when I started using depo provera.According to photos, my hair is noticebly thinner about 6 months after I started using the shot. I was never told this was a side effect so that's why I got online to see if anyone else had expierenced the same thing. I feel a lot better for doing so. I was beginning to think I was going crazy or something. But now I believe this is exactly why I am losing my hair. My concern now is this: 1) Is my hair going to stop falling out once I stop getting the shot? and 2) how am I going to find a birth control that worked for me better than Depo? Because even though I am FURIOUS about this hair loss business, I liked using depo. I never gained weight, my moods have been a lot better, and I never worried about getting pregnant. It completely stopped my menstrual bleeding altogether, and I felt secure knowing there was no chance I was going to get pregnant. So what are some other good options???? My hair is my one vice so I want to take care of it, but I don't want to be a mommy right now either. So what do I do?.........

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Apr 14, 2010
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Hairless Hairstylist
by: Sandy

I am now 37 and I first had the depo shot after I had my daughter. I was 21 then. I was getting the shot for a little more than a year when I decided to stop. My hair was falling out but I thought it was because of having a baby. Well, 16 years later and my hair still has not grown back. You can see straight through to my scalp and forget it if I ever go in the sun. Sunburn on your head is horrible. The worst part is I am a hairstylist. I should have great hair.

Mar 29, 2010
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Update from original post
by: Becky

Next month will be 2 years since my last shot of Depo, and unfortunately I am still wrestling with pretty serious hair loss. Although it did slow down for a few months last summer, it picked right back up and is now *almost* as bad as it was in the beginning. I totally understand the devastation of it all...I dread showering and styling my hair...I desperately need to get a haircut but am terrified at the thought of anyone touching it. I saw my PCP last week who is sending me to another dermatologist, but as this one is out of a military treatment facility I'm not sure how serious he's going to take me. I am prepared to request a scalp biopsy to see if those follicles are still viable.

I estimate now that I've lost about 2/3 of what I started with (thank goodness that was alot)it is still coming from all over but is now noticeable around the temples (if I pull my hair back) I started using Nioxin System 3 on March 1st...has anyone tried it before? I know they say it causes excess loss at first as it cleanses the follicles, but does anyone know how long that will last? It will be four weeks tomorrow...

Anyhow, as for the lady who asked about the implant, I'm really not sure. I guess it depends on the hormones and I would talk to your doc about it...as for me I am done with artificial hormones period...luckily my husband and I are planning on starting a family soon.

Anyhow, I'll keep you updated after my derm appointment next month...if it doesn't go well I found a trichologist not far from me that offers free consultations...has anyone tried laser light therapy?

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Mar 29, 2010
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Submitted by: Becky

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Next month will be 2 years since my last shot of Depo, and unfortunately I am still wrestling with pretty serious hair loss. Although it did slow down for a few months last summer, it picked right back up and is now *almost* as bad as it was in the beginning. I totally understand the devastation of it all...I dread showering and styling my hair...I desperately need to get a haircut but am terrified at the thought of anyone touching it. I saw my PCP last week who is sending me to another dermatologist, but as this one is out of a military treatment facility I'm not sure how serious he's going to take me. I am prepared to request a scalp biopsy to see if those follicles are still viable. I estimate now that I've lost about 2/3 of what I started with (thank goodness that was alot)it is still coming from all over but is now noticeable around the temples (if I pull my hair back) I started using Nioxin System 3 on March 1st...has anyone tried it before? I know they say it causes excess loss at first as it cleanses the follicles, but does anyone know how long that will last? It will be four weeks tomorrow... Anyhow, as for the lady who asked about the implant, I'm really not sure. I guess it depends on the hormones and I would talk to your doc about it...as for me I am done with artificial hormones period...luckily my husband and I are planning on starting a family soon. Anyhow, I'll keep you updated after my derm appointment next month...if it doesn't go well I found a trichologist not far from me that offers free consultations...has anyone tried laser light therapy?

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Mar 24, 2010
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Hair Still falling out after 16 months. Help!!!
by: Anonymous

I took the depro shot in Nov. 2008, and it is still falling out in cycles. It will stop for about 3 months then start again. I don't know how much more I can bare. i wash it about 2 times a week and comb it when i only have to. I am so depressed and i don't feel like leaving the house i barely have enough to wear up anymore. I don't know if i should go back to the doctor or not.

Mar 17, 2010
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Help please.........
by: Anonymous

Dear Becky

If I suffered hair loss whilst using deprovera is it likely I will experience the same thing with an implant?

Mar 17, 2010
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Stay away from depro vera
by: Anonymous

I was using depro for about ten years, I thought it was the ideal contraception solution as I didn't have to remember to take the pill on a daily basis. For the first three years everything seemed fine then I began to notice gradual hairloss. I made several visits to my doctor and blood test and nothing abnormal was found. At no time did my doctor ever mention it could possibly be a side effect of depro. Within a year I had total hair loss but related this to the stress of a marriage break up. After the divorce I stop taking depro and my hair gradually grew back but I still failed to make the connection. When I started a new relationshipd I went back onto the depro within 6 months again the hair loss, more test and still doctors institing nothing to do with depro. Tried all types of remedies and vitamins all of no use. Anyway, stopped taking depro apprx 18mnths and again my hair has started growing back. That was too much of a coincidence and after reading this site I am now reassured that it the hairloss was due to depro.

Mar 10, 2010
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Hair losswith depo?
by: Anonymous

Unfortunately I have been on depo for10 years and not been told to come off it. Noticed hair thinning but didn't get too concerned. Recently loads is coming out., I am so upset and worried. Been for blood tests this week so waiting for results, but I think it's the injection. I want it out of my system, but I've got 2 months left of this jab! My hair is down to the bottom of my back and I'm getting some cut on Friday to try to strengthen it. I'm heart broken..... Also I should not have been on it this long and have suffered with my weight. Can anyone tell me that once you stop the injection , does your hair grow back? Thank you

Jan 14, 2010
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NEVER take Depo - It can ruin your life!!!!! (2)
by: Sussycat

I am only 29 years old, and have to decide whether to wear a wig on my wedding day someday, since extensions show through my thinned top hair, or to have my natural hair styled to hide the bald spots as best as possible, which will be near to impossible after the dramatic loss that I have sustained. I have asked my boyfriend not to propose to me twice (8 years into our relationship) because I just don't want to think about that, yet. I can't even pull it back to hide what is happening anymore, because I have lost too much - my scalp shows through in stripes. I now have horrible self esteem issues, as I am still battling those last 35 pounds or so that I gained, too, and my hair looks so bad. I was the prom queen in high school, and now when old friends see me, they are horrified to the point where they can't hide it from me very well. They stare in shock for a few seconds, before realizing they have their W-T-F faces on, and then "smoothly" try to talk about something else - they don't ask how I am much, because I think it makes them uncomfortable, or they are trying to be polite.

Because I am tired of people looking at me like I am a leper now, I avoid nearly all social functions that don't involve my immediate family, and will not allow photos of me to be taken. I don't really want to have a wedding at all anymore, and I am scared to have children because I have heard that sometimes being pregnant causes hair loss, too. I hope that doesn't sound too superficial of me, but honestly, our society is obsessed with looks, and people treat you differently - for a female, hair is so important for our self esteem and for our identity as "feminine." To start going bald in your early twenties is horribly traumatic, and I am having a really hard time getting past that and progressing in my life. Even job interviews are traumatizing, because you want to look your best, and I am unable to hide my hair - all I can think about is that this potential employer must be wondering what the heck is wrong with me - drugs? Mental health issues? Why else would a perfectly healthy young woman lose her hair? This is ruining my life. If you are considering Depo Provera for yourself at all, I strongly caution you not to do it - it is NOT worth rolling the chemical dice to see how your particular body will react. I have heard depo stories that are far worse than mine - it is a horrible product, and I do not know how it managed to pass testing and scrutiny to reach the market. I have heard far too many similar stories to chalk it up to "some users MAY experience some side effects;" everyone I know who has tried it had experienced negative side effects to some degree. Its just such a bad risk to take for simple convenience. I wish someone had talked me out of it, or that I had done more research on this product, first. Taking it was the stupidest thing I have ever done, and now I have irreversible side effects. Don't do this to yourself!!!!!!!

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Jan 14, 2010
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Submitted by: Sussycat

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I am only 29 years old, and have to decide whether to wear a wig on my wedding day someday, since extensions show through my thinned top hair, or to have my natural hair styled to hide the bald spots as best as possible, which will be near to impossible after the dramatic loss that I have sustained. I have asked my boyfriend not to propose to me twice (8 years into our relationship) because I just don't want to think about that, yet. I can't even pull it back to hide what is happening anymore, because I have lost too much - my scalp shows through in stripes. I now have horrible self esteem issues, as I am still battling those last 35 pounds or so that I gained, too, and my hair looks so bad. I was the prom queen in high school, and now when old friends see me, they are horrified to the point where they can't hide it from me very well. They stare in shock for a few seconds, before realizing they have their W-T-F faces on, and then "smoothly" try to talk about something else - they don't ask how I am much, because I think it makes them uncomfortable, or they are trying to be polite. Because I am tired of people looking at me like I am a leper now, I avoid nearly all social functions that don't involve my immediate family, and will not allow photos of me to be taken. I don't really want to have a wedding at all anymore, and I am scared to have children because I have heard that sometimes being pregnant causes hair loss, too. I hope that doesn't sound too superficial of me, but honestly, our society is obsessed with looks, and people treat you differently - for a female, hair is so important for our self esteem and for our identity as "feminine." To start going bald in your early twenties is horribly traumatic, and I am having a really hard time getting past that and progressing in my life. Even job interviews are traumatizing, because you want to look your best, and I am unable to hide my hair - all I can think about is that this potential employer must be wondering what the heck is wrong with me - drugs? Mental health issues? Why else would a perfectly healthy young woman lose her hair? This is ruining my life. If you are considering Depo Provera for yourself at all, I strongly caution you not to do it - it is NOT worth rolling the chemical dice to see how your particular body will react. I have heard depo stories that are far worse than mine - it is a horrible product, and I do not know how it managed to pass testing and scrutiny to reach the market. I have heard far too many similar stories to chalk it up to "some users MAY experience some side effects;" everyone I know who has tried it had experienced negative side effects to some degree. Its just such a bad risk to take for simple convenience. I wish someone had talked me out of it, or that I had done more research on this product, first. Taking it was the stupidest thing I have ever done, and now I have irreversible side effects. Don't do this to yourself!!!!!!!

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Jan 14, 2010
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NEVER take Depo - It can ruin your life!!!!! (2)
by: Anonymous

I am only 29 years old, and have to decide whether to wear a wig on my wedding day someday, since extensions show through my thinned top hair, or to have my natural hair styled to hide the bald spots as best as possible, which will be near to impossible after the dramatic loss that I have sustained. I have asked my boyfriend not to propose to me twice (8 years into our relationship) because I just don't want to think about that, yet. I can't even pull it back to hide what is happening anymore, because I have lost too much - my scalp shows through in stripes. I now have horrible self esteem issues, as I am still battling those last 35 pounds or so that I gained, too, and my hair looks so bad. I was the prom queen in high school, and now when old friends see me, they are horrified to the point where they can't hide it from me very well. They stare in shock for a few seconds, before realizing they have their W-T-F faces on, and then "smoothly" try to talk about something else - they don't ask how I am much, because I think it makes them uncomfortable, or they are trying to be polite.

Because I am tired of people looking at me like I am a leper now, I avoid nearly all social functions that don't involve my immediate family, and will not allow photos of me to be taken. I don't really want to have a wedding at all anymore, and I am scared to have children because I have heard that sometimes being pregnant causes hair loss, too. I hope that doesn't sound too superficial of me, but honestly, our society is obsessed with looks, and people treat you differently - for a female, hair is so important for our self esteem and for our identity as "feminine." To start going bald in your early twenties is horribly traumatic, and I am having a really hard time getting past that and progressing in my life. Even job interviews are traumatizing, because you want to look your best, and I am unable to hide my hair - all I can think about is that this potential employer must be wondering what the heck is wrong with me - drugs? Mental health issues? Why else would a perfectly healthy young woman lose her hair? This is ruining my life. If you are considering Depo Provera for yourself at all, I strongly caution you not to do it - it is NOT worth rolling the chemical dice to see how your particular body will react. I have heard depo stories that are far worse than mine - it is a horrible product, and I do not know how it managed to pass testing and scrutiny to reach the market. I have heard far too many similar stories to chalk it up to "some users MAY experience some side effects;" everyone I know who has tried it had experienced negative side effects to some degree. Its just such a bad risk to take for simple convenience. I wish someone had talked me out of it, or that I had done more research on this product, first. Taking it was the stupidest thing I have ever done, and now I have irreversible side effects. Don't do this to yourself!!!!!!!

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Jan 14, 2010
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Submitted by: Anonymous

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Jan 14, 2010
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NEVER take Depo - It can ruin your life!!!!! (1)
by: Sussycat

I had three injections of Depo during 2003-2004, when I was 23, from the doctors at my university while I was in school.

After the first, I didn't notice any side effects aside from missing my period completely. After the second shot, I noticed mild melancholic mood swings (which is very uncharacteristic for me...), and as the date approached for my third shot, I noticed some slight weight gain - about 5 lbs. After my third shot, however, my weight gain spiked drastically and dangerously - I gained 60 pounds in about four months, despite no changes to my diet, lifestyle, or exercise regimen (I played co-ed competitive basketball 2 nights a week, and took Tae Kwon Doe lessons at the blue belt level two nights a week, and on Saturdays, and my classes were very manageable and not at all a worry for me). I'm a strong student and a very active, athletic person, and there was no other reason for such a huge gain - I had stretch marks for the first time, ever, and none of my clothing fit at all anymore, because it seemed to happen overnight. I also noticed that my hair began falling out more than usual.

In six years, it hasn't stopped falling out at all, and has actually accelerated. I have stopped dyeing it or using any heat treatments on it, I brush it only when I have to (which I have come to dread) and have gone from daily washes to a couple of times a week, to help preserve what I still have. A bald patch is developing on the crown of my head, and my scalp is clearly visible along my part in a two inch wide strip. I am young, and there is absolutely no baldness or thinning hair on either side of my family - it is quite the opposite, and even my 60+ year old aunts and uncles boast the same thick, lush hair that I once had, both paternal and maternal. My grandparents all have gorgeous hair, too.

I went to my family doctor, who told me that there were no problems with my thyroid, my blood test results were the best he has ever seen in a girl my age, and said to keep doing whatever it is I am doing, nutritionally. He sent me to a dermatologist, who started telling me that it could be female alopecia, until I said that I had been on depo, to which he said "Ohhhhh." Basically, there is nothing that can be done for me.

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Jan 14, 2010
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Submitted by: Sussycat

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I had three injections of Depo during 2003-2004, when I was 23, from the doctors at my university while I was in school. After the first, I didn't notice any side effects aside from missing my period completely. After the second shot, I noticed mild melancholic mood swings (which is very uncharacteristic for me...), and as the date approached for my third shot, I noticed some slight weight gain - about 5 lbs. After my third shot, however, my weight gain spiked drastically and dangerously - I gained 60 pounds in about four months, despite no changes to my diet, lifestyle, or exercise regimen (I played co-ed competitive basketball 2 nights a week, and took Tae Kwon Doe lessons at the blue belt level two nights a week, and on Saturdays, and my classes were very manageable and not at all a worry for me). I'm a strong student and a very active, athletic person, and there was no other reason for such a huge gain - I had stretch marks for the first time, ever, and none of my clothing fit at all anymore, because it seemed to happen overnight. I also noticed that my hair began falling out more than usual. In six years, it hasn't stopped falling out at all, and has actually accelerated. I have stopped dyeing it or using any heat treatments on it, I brush it only when I have to (which I have come to dread) and have gone from daily washes to a couple of times a week, to help preserve what I still have. A bald patch is developing on the crown of my head, and my scalp is clearly visible along my part in a two inch wide strip. I am young, and there is absolutely no baldness or thinning hair on either side of my family - it is quite the opposite, and even my 60+ year old aunts and uncles boast the same thick, lush hair that I once had, both paternal and maternal. My grandparents all have gorgeous hair, too. I went to my family doctor, who told me that there were no problems with my thyroid, my blood test results were the best he has ever seen in a girl my age, and said to keep doing whatever it is I am doing, nutritionally. He sent me to a dermatologist, who started telling me that it could be female alopecia, until I said that I had been on depo, to which he said "Ohhhhh." Basically, there is nothing that can be done for me.

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Jan 12, 2010
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Dont do the depo
by: Anonymous

im 17 and ive only had 2 depo shots and i noticed a lot of my hair fallin out... everytime i wash it i see more and more in the tub.. i didnt havea a lot to start with but my pony tail is really thinned out and i really prefer not to wear it out... im sure its effective but the side efects arent worth it

Dec 17, 2009
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Don't Do Depo
by: Annonymous

I'm 17, and I feel your pain. Up until about 5 months ago I had more hair then I could deal with. This past two months I've noticed when I ran my hands through my hair it comes out in handfulls, Yesterday I noticed that a pony I couldn't put in at all before (for fear my hair would snap it) now can be wrapped 3 times. Luckily I started with alot of hair, so it still seems like I have alot, but Im in a major panic.
Besides that I graduated in 7 months, I love my hair. The saddest part about it, this wasn't my only symptoms. I had my period for 4 months straight, I may have to have a D & C for endometrium build up, I'm anemic , and yet I've gained 25 pounds, and now that I'm off it my once perfect skin is a land mine. Again I repeat I grad in 7 months, and the pictures are next month. To anybody looking for contraception. Just don't do it, not having to remember the pill every day is SO not worth this.

Nov 30, 2009
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Depo causes hair loss
by: Shrina

I was on depo for 6 years and never seemed to have a problem. I missed 2 injections b/c I wasn't sexually active during that time and didn't need birth control. I began depo again in May and by early August began noticing bald spots forming all over my scalp! It was time for another injection, so I asked the nurse if I should try a new form of birth control b/c of the hair loss. She advised me to try the pill (containing estrogen), and also to see a general practitioner in case the hair loss wasn't related to depo. I ended up with 6 bald spots, 4 of which were HUGE! After blood tests with normal results, 3 doctors and 4 visits- I'm currently on the pill and haven't changed anything else and am glad to report my hair is coming back!
The convenience of an injection every 3 months is not worth the side affects and I would NEVER recommend this form of birth control to ANYONE!

Nov 10, 2009
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Depo made my hair break off!
by: MeMe

My story is exactly like the young lady who started this blog. In my situation, an entire row of my hair broke off. It first started with an increased amount of shedding about 3 months after my first shot. A section of my hair broke off after I recieved my second shot. I would NEVER recommend this form of birth control to anyone.

Also, I have experienced daily migraines, increased sense of nausea, dizziness, low libido, and upset stomach. I've been so sick since starting on the Depo. I declined taking the third shot and switched back to taking the pill.

Nov 10, 2009
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Now I know!
by: bikergrrl

Im 36 and Ive been on depo for nearly three years and for the last few months have had really significant hair loss. Doctor ran blood tests which came back normal so then shrugged their shoulders and said oh well, nothing I can do!! Its only through researching it myself Ive realised its a side effect from Depo use, the doc never even mentioned it but reading on this site seems to back up my thinking that it is the cause.

I'm slightly horrified about the young girls that have posted on here though as surely your doctor should never have put you on it with the risk of bone deterioration whilst so young?

Oct 16, 2009
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depo hair loss
by: Anonymous

I've used Depo for a year now and have lost a significant amount of hair, plus I spot and bleed the whole 3rd month. I have always suffered with depression and the shot has made me miserable. Plus, the neck and back aches are excruciating. My next one is next month, but my boyfriend has decided he wants a kid. So, we broke up, and while this is devastating, at least I don't have to be on Depo any more and hopefully my hair will be healthy again soon. I'll NEVER use it again. I'll just stay sex free til I can afford a hysterectomy!

Sep 03, 2009
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Hair Loss
by: Amy

I have also been experiencing hair loss that I can only attribute to Depo. I received my first shot in June, 2009. Only a few weeks after did I begin to notice a huge amount of hair falling out all of the time. When I take a bath, I notice hundreds of hairs floating in the water. I have resorted to showers only! I also feel like my hair just doesn't feel right. It doesn't seem to be as shiny or easy to manage. I have always had a ton of thick hair and losing it is really upsetting to me. I will not be going back for another dose. I hope what everyone says is true and that things will balance back out in a few months.

Aug 05, 2009
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hair loss from DEPO
by: Anonymous

im only 15 years old my ob put me on the depo shot 3 months ago and my hair falls out in chunks all day its all over the place the doctor just stoped it and my hair is still fallin out and im scared i really dont want to be bald at 15 CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP MEEEEEEE

Jul 22, 2009
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Still No Hair
by: Marne

I was on Depo-Provera for about 6 years, and my hair started to fall out. I have been off the shot for almost 5 years now, and my hair has never grown back! It is SO UPSETTING. I have a huge bald spot and very, very thin hair. I've had my thyroid tested and get regular blood tests at the doctor, but I still have no hair. BEWARE!

May 06, 2009
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Hair Loss because of Depo!
by: Marcie

Here's my question!

I'm 17 && I got the Depo shot and than a week later my hair started falling out!

I got the shot on April 21st of 2009!

If I just let the shot get out of my system will the hair loss stop!

I'm too young too go bald! && graduation is next month!!

Apr 15, 2009
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Update - Becky
by: Anonymous

OK, its been more than six months since I first posted and coming up on a year at the end of this month that I had my last shot. I saw a significant reduction in hair loss about December, so 8 months after the last shot, but since then I seem to have it in waves. Not nearly as bad as it was at its worst, but still enough to cause concern. Should I go back to the doctor, or is it still the drug that hasn't completely evaporated from my system?

Feb 05, 2009
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Hair Loss
by: Ruby

I was having the same problem... started my depo provera last October.. had my second shot last January ... I think the cause of my hair loss is because of depo... or it is just normal because I just gave birth... is this normal? Whenever I comb my hair lots of hair goes with the comb... I am so worried... what will I do.. is stopping depo provera a solution?

Jan 24, 2009
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hair loss from shot
by: brandy

About a week after I got the Deop, my hair started to fall out. It was not only shedding but coming from the root. I rcvd the shot on 12/16/08 and my hair as continued to fall out to date. I have or had long, thick hair. I have too noticed my ponytail becoming thinner and thinner. Co-workers continue to ask if I cut my hair. I spoke with my doctor and was informed that once I rcv the second dosage, the side effect will "go away". She also recommended that I take vitamins, especially vitamin B. I do not plan on getting another dosage.

Dec 19, 2008
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hair loss due to Norplant
by: Anonymous

I am 35 yrs old and had the Norplant contraceptive, and have had hair loss ever since I have not had them in for 11 years now but continue to see hair loss. I became pregnant after having them removed and have a beautiful daughter, but I have noticed that her hair too is falling out and believe this to be a result of the Norplant. Can anyone give me some advice on what measures I can take or doctors to consult? I've had my thyroid checked all was ok hormone levels were said to be ok. Is there something or anything that I can do to reverse these effects???

Sep 30, 2008
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Having Hair Loss too..
by: Melinda

Dear Becky,

I was having some same problems with Depo Provera too. After 3 months of the first injection, i was feeling giddy and lack of appetite. After a month of two I was suddenly losing my hair.

I had no idea what happened so I thought it has something to do with the recent lack of sleep. I went to my family doctor and she said that I am facing with hair loss caused by Depo.

After quitting this drug, the hair loss stopped after 4-5 months after the injection. I guess it's really causing the hair loss. But now everything is back to normal.

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