“Nearly 1.7 million women in the U.S. rely on injectable birth control like Depo-Provera,” according to the Guttmacher Institute. It’s convenient. It’s long-lasting. But for some, it comes with a price: serious and sometimes permanent health problems.
If you’ve experienced complications after using Depo-Provera, you might be wondering if you have a legal case. Can you sue? What are the requirements? And where do you even start?
If you think your injury is connected to Depo-Provera, you’re not alone. And you’re not without options.
Legal Basis for Filing Depo-Provera Claims
Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) is a hormonal injection used for contraception. It’s manufactured by Pfizer. Like all pharmaceutical products, it comes with risks. But when those risks are underestimated, undisclosed, or avoidable, the law steps in.
A Depo-Provera lawsuit typically falls under product liability law. There are three common grounds for suing:
- Defective design: The product is inherently unsafe, even when used correctly.
- Manufacturing defect: Something went wrong in the production process.
- Failure to warn: The drug manufacturer didn’t provide adequate warnings about potential risks.
In the case of Depo-Provera, most lawsuits are filed under “failure to warn.” Many women say they weren’t told that long-term use could lead to significant bone density loss, increased risk of osteoporosis, or other serious health effects.
A birth control injury attorney can evaluate your medical history, treatment records, and product use timeline to determine if you may have a valid claim.
Types of Injuries Commonly Reported
Some side effects of Depo-Provera are mild. But others are not.
Here are some of the most commonly reported Depo-Provera injuries:
1. Bone Density Loss (Osteoporosis)
The FDA has issued a black box warning about Depo-Provera’s effect on bone health. Long-term use may cause irreversible loss of bone mineral density, especially in adolescents and young women.
According to a 2021 study published in Contraception, women using Depo-Provera for more than two years had a 5-6% reduction in spinal bone density—a level associated with increased fracture risk later in life.
2. Menstrual Disorders
Many women experience prolonged bleeding, spotting, or no periods at all. In some cases, irregular bleeding becomes severe and chronic.
3. Hormonal Side Effects
Mood swings, weight gain, and depression are frequently reported. Some women experience debilitating anxiety or panic attacks linked to hormonal changes.
4. Delayed Fertility or Infertility
Although marketed as reversible, some women report that fertility takes much longer to return—or doesn’t return at all.
5. Increased Risk of Breast Cancer
A 2012 study in the Journal of Cancer Epidemiology found that recent users of Depo-Provera had a 2.2 times greater risk of invasive breast cancer.
These injuries are not rare anomalies. They’re documented. If you’ve experienced any of these after using Depo-Provera, it’s time to talk to a birth control injury attorney.
Proving Liability in Pharmaceutical Cases
Suing a pharmaceutical company isn’t simple. Drug manufacturers have deep legal teams and high thresholds for evidence. That’s why it’s important to understand what’s involved in proving a Depo-Provera lawsuit.
To succeed, your lawyer will need to show that:
- You were prescribed or injected with Depo-Provera
- You experienced a specific injury or medical condition
- Depo-Provera use was a significant contributing factor to that injury
- The manufacturer failed to adequately warn about that risk
This usually involves gathering:
- Medical records
- Product use history
- Expert medical testimony
- Scientific studies
- Internal drug safety reports (when accessible in litigation)
One of the most effective ways to hold a drugmaker accountable is through multidistrict litigation (MDL) or mass tort claims, where many similar cases are grouped together.
Cory Watson Attorneys has handled many of product liability cases like this. We know how to build strong claims that stand up in court or lead to favorable settlements.
How a Lawyer Can Help You
You don’t need to take on a pharmaceutical giant alone.
Here’s how a birth control injury attorney can help:
- Review your medical records to determine if you have a case
- Connect your injury to the drug using expert medical opinions
- File your lawsuit before the statute of limitations runs out (this varies by state)
- Negotiate a settlement or go to trial on your behalf
- Handle all communication with the opposing counsel or insurance companies
At Cory Watson Attorneys, we’ve been helping victims of unsafe drugs and medical devices for over 40 years. Our lawyers have recovered over $4 billion in verdicts and settlements for injured clients.
When you work with us, we’ll take care of the legal side so you can focus on your recovery.
What to Do If You Think You Have a Case
If you believe Depo-Provera caused your injury, take these steps:
- Stop using the drug only under medical guidance.
- Request and secure copies of your medical records.
- Document your symptoms and when they began.
- Contact a qualified attorney as soon as possible.
You may have limited time to act. The statute of limitations could expire within 1 to 3 years, depending on your state.
Talk to Cory Watson Attorneys About a Depo-Provera Lawsuit
You have questions. We have answers. If you’ve suffered health problems after using Depo-Provera, contact Cory Watson Attorneys today. We’re currently investigating Depo-Provera lawsuits and may be able to help you recover damages for your injuries.
We offer free consultations. You pay nothing unless we win.Reach out to us today to speak with a birth control injury attorney who understands these cases and knows how to fight.