I am 38 years old and I have been off the Depo Provera since June 2006.

I was on it for 5 years. I got my period in August 2006 and have had one every month since then. They are fairly regular, yet sometimes, the run 28 days, other times 32. One month I was 10 days late, but for the most part, they have been on time and normal.

I have been trying to get pregnant since January 2007, but no luck. Can I assume that since I have had a period every month, that the Depo is out of my system? Or is it possible that it is still in my system even though I have my period? And how can one know?

Thanks

Doctors will tell you that after getting off the depo shot, to allow for at least 18 months of trying to conceive, before worrying about your fertility. Since you were on it for such a long period, it could be longer. Your age might also play a role in this. However, the shot effects women differently. Some have no problems getting their periods back on schedule and getting pregnant right away. Others it takes a long time for their systems to get back to normal. It would be wise to go to your doctor and get a pre-conception exam and talk over your concerns with the shot. They can better help you understand the percentages and time tables, and make sure that everything is in proper order for you to get pregnant. Also make sure you are taking prenatal vitamins as you are trying to conceive. ( at least folic acid, and a calcium supplement, as the shot can greatly deplete your calcium stores.) Good luck to you.

I stopped taking Depo in December of '05 and got a period in Jan '06. I was pretty normal throughout the year, started trying to get pregnant in Sept '06. I completely missed ovulation and my period in December of '06 and I finally got pregnant in March '07. Sometimes it just takes time. You were on the shot for quite a long time, and you are in the older range for conception. Since you are older you could easily go to a fertility specialist now. If I were you I would inform your doctor of your concerns. They may be able to put you on clomid to get your ovulation going if it isn't already.