What Causes Vaginal Spotting After Taking Depo Shot?

Posted on Sat, 27 Sep 2014

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 27 Sep 2014 Answered on

Tue, 21 Oct 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I've been on the depo shot for 8 months now and I've never spotted before except once when I first started and now I've been spotting and cramping for 4 straight days. Why is this happening, how can I stop it?

Answered by Dr. Richa Agarwal (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Most probably due to depo shot.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for your question.

The above mentioned symptoms most likely side effect due to depo shot.

Menstrual irregularities are the most common side effect of depo shot and can occur up to one year.

For cramps you can do warm compress, heat pad or hot water bottle.

You can take ibuprofen if you experience severe cramps.

Drink a lot of water and low salt diet is also helpful.

It can be due to vaginal infection also if you are having other symptoms of vaginal infection like vaginal discharge, itching and odor.If it seems so then please consult your gynecologist and take treatment accordingly.

If you experience severe bleeding and cramps then you should consult your treating doctor.

Hope I have answered your query If you have further questions I will be happy to assist you.

Good luck.
Regards
Dr.Richa

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj