Millions of women all over the world use Depo-Provera as a common hormonal birth control method. It works by delivering a synthetic form of progesterone, known as progestogen, into the body. While it’s an effective form of contraception, a recent study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) has uncovered a concerning link between prolonged use of Depo-Provera and an increased risk of developing certain types of brain tumors, specifically meningiomas.

What Is Depo-Provera?

Depo-Provera is an injectable form of birth control that works for up to three months with each shot. It contains a synthetic hormone that prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. For many, it is an attractive option because of its convenience—there’s no daily pill to remember. However, this ease of use may also contribute to the risks associated with its prolonged use.

The Connection Between Hormones and Brain Tumors

The human body produces natural hormones, like estrogen and progesterone, to regulate various functions, including the reproductive system. Hormonal medications like Depo-Provera introduce synthetic versions of these hormones, and in some cases, this can lead to unintended side effects.

Recent studies, including the one published by BMJ, have raised concerns about the long-term effects of synthetic progestogens on the brain. According to the BMJ study, women who used progestogen-only contraceptives, including Depo-Provera, for extended periods were found to have a higher risk of developing brain tumors, specifically meningiomas. Meningiomas are slow-growing tumors that form in the meninges, the protective layers of tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

While most meningiomas are benign, meaning they are not cancerous, they can still cause serious health problems depending on their size and location. Large meningiomas can press against the brain, leading to symptoms such as headaches, vision problems, seizures, and even changes in personality. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the tumor.

What Did the BMJ Study Reveal?

The BMJ study, published in March 2024, analyzed data from over 100,000 women and found a link between prolonged use of hormone-based medications like Depo-Provera and an increased risk of developing intracranial tumors. The researchers specifically focused on meningiomas, which accounted for the majority of the brain tumors observed in the study.

One of the key findings was that the risk of developing a brain tumor increased with the duration of use. Women who had used Depo-Provera or similar progestogen-based medications for five years or longer were found to have a significantly higher risk of meningiomas compared to women who had not used these medications for an extended period.

Dr. Véronique Duthiers, one of the lead authors of the study, explained: “Our research suggests that while short-term use of progestogen-only medications like Depo-Provera may be relatively safe, prolonged use could increase the risk of serious brain tumors like meningiomas.” This statement highlights the importance of discussing long-term use with a healthcare provider and weighing the benefits and risks of this contraceptive option.

How Common Are Meningiomas?

Meningiomas are considered rare, but they are actually the most common type of brain tumor. According to the National Cancer Institute, meningiomas account for about one-third of all brain and spinal cord tumors. Although they are more likely to be benign, they can still lead to complications if they grow large enough to interfere with brain function.

The BMJ study is not the first to raise concerns about the link between hormone-based medications and brain tumors. Previous research has also suggested that hormones, particularly progestogens, may play a role in the development of meningiomas. However, the BMJ study is one of the largest and most comprehensive studies to date, providing strong evidence of this connection.

Who Is at Risk?

The risk of developing a meningioma appears to be higher for women who have used progestogen-based contraceptives like Depo-Provera for extended periods. Women who take hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which often contains similar hormones, may also be at an increased risk.

According to an article published in The Guardian, Dr. Duthiers emphasized the need for further research to fully understand the risks. She stated, “We need to better understand the biological mechanisms that cause meningiomas to develop in response to prolonged hormone use, especially in women who take these medications for birth control or menopause management.”

It’s important to note that not every woman who uses Depo-Provera will develop a brain tumor. In fact, the overall risk is still relatively low, but the findings from this study are significant enough to warrant caution, particularly for women who may be considering long-term use.

What Should Women Do?

If you’re using Depo-Provera or considering it as a birth control option, it’s essential to talk to your healthcare provider about the potential risks. While the risk of developing a meningioma from short-term use is low, the risk increases with prolonged use, especially over several years.

Healthcare professionals may recommend alternative forms of birth control if long-term use is a concern. There are many options available, including non-hormonal methods like copper IUDs, barrier methods, or even other types of hormonal contraceptives that may carry a lower risk.

It’s also important to monitor any unusual symptoms, particularly if you’ve been using Depo-Provera for a long time. Symptoms of meningiomas can include persistent headaches, vision changes, seizures, or changes in behavior or personality. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

Depo Shot Lawsuits Claim Pfizer Should Have Known

People who have been diagnosed with intracranial meningioma or other serious health issues after using Depo-Provera might be able to receive financial compensation through a Depo-Provera lawsuit. Several lawsuits have already been filed against Pfizer, the company that makes Depo-Provera, by people who developed intracranial meningioma after long-term use of the birth control shot.

These lawsuits claim that Pfizer knew or should have known about the possible link between Depo-Provera and meningioma, but didn’t properly warn consumers or doctors about the risks.