Is Osteopenia linked to the Depo Provera Shot?

Question

I am a 24 year old Australian and in the last 6months I fractured both of my wrists.

I went to see my doctor for a check up and begged him to give me a referral to get my bone density checked as I have never broken / fractured anything in my life. He was extremely reluctant to refer me even though I was on the depo injection and had had these 2 fractures in such a short space. He doesn't believe the injection is linked to low bone density.

I got my results and he was surprised to discover I have Osteopenia. I now have to wait a few weeks to get my some more tests done. I am wondering if this is most likely linked to taking the depo injection for 5-6 years and if so, should I come off the injection immediately? Can I reverse the osteopenia?

Answer 1

yes there are links between the contraceptive injection and low bone density, so it's likely to be because of that. obviously you cannot say for sure though. thats bad that your doctor isn't taking it seriously though - they told me i couldn't have the shot because of this risk (i was 17, they said it was too young and i could get osteopenia).  try other methods, i have the implant and it's great. it lasts 3 years and i think only one person has got pregnant whilst using it. and it often makes periods MUCH lighter or you don't have them at all :)

Answer 2

That's interesting about Osteopenia b/c I used to be on Depo and now have Osteopenia.  

You should come off Depo, it is a horrible birth control with horrible side effects.  Much better options out there!

You can help osteopenia with calcium!  I was told mine would get better after time.

Answer 3

There is a link between decreased bone density and Depo Provera. Medical studies on this link have been around since the mid-90s. In the US, the FDA does not suggest you use Depo Provera for more than 2 years because of this side effect. Conversely, the World Health Organization is more broad in recommends, saying Depo Provera can be used without restrict a time restrict in women 18 to 45.

With 2 wrist fractures in 6 months I would strongly consider another form of birth control. I'm sorry, but I don't know what exactly is available to you in Australia. If you like not having a period and are in a monogamous relationship, there is a progesterone-based IUD (Mirena) that may appeal to you.