Know the Signs of Meningioma From Depo-Provera

The birth control injection Depo-Provera has been linked to side effects that could seriously affect women’s neurological health. Studies have recently identified a connection between Depo-Provera and meningiomas, tumors that develop in the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord (meninges). 

We want patients to be aware of common meningioma symptoms, the possible connection to Depo-Provera, and what the future holds after diagnosis. If you or a loved one has used Depo-Provera and been diagnosed with meningioma, contact the product liability attorneys of Wilson Kehoe Winingham. 

Call (317) 920-6400 or complete our online contact form for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

Brain and Spinal Meningioma Symptoms

While most meningiomas are benign, they can still cause various symptoms due to their location and size. If you used Depo-Provera in the past, you should be aware of the following physical and neurological signs of meningiomas:

Brain Meningioma Symptoms

• Headaches (often worse in the morning or with physical activity)
• Seizures (new-onset, often focal or generalized)
• Vision problems (like blurred or double vision)
• Cognitive or memory issues (such as trouble concentrating or confusion)
• Personality or mood changes (like irritability, depression, or apathy)
• Motor deficits (such as weakness or paralysis in one side of the body)
• Speech difficulties (such as trouble speaking or understanding language)
• Hearing loss (if the tumor affects the auditory nerve)

Spinal Meningioma Symptoms

• Back pain (often localized, worsens with movement or certain positions)
• Leg weakness (difficulty walking or reduced coordination)
• Loss of sensation (often numbness or tingling in the limbs or torso)
• Bladder or bowel dysfunction (such as incontinence or retention)
• Impaired or abnormal reflex responses

Possible Connection Between Meningiomas and Depo-Provera

Depo-Provera contains medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA), a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. Estrogen and progesterone have historically been linked to the growth of certain types of tumors, including meningiomas. 

Some studies have suggested that:

• Hormonal influence on tumor growth. Progesterone receptors are often present on meningioma cells, which suggests that exposure to high levels of synthetic progesterone, such as that in Depo-Provera, might contribute to the development or growth of meningiomas.
• Increased risk with long-term use. Some research indicates that hormonal-birth-control brain tumor risks increase for women who use it for extended periods, although this connection is not yet definitive.

Potential Treatments and Outcomes for Meningiomas

Treatment for meningiomas depends on their size, location, and symptoms. Malignant meningiomas (rare) may require a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. In general, fully resected benign meningiomas (non-cancerous) have a good prognosis. However, if the tumor is not completely removed or it recurs, additional treatments may be required.

Options for benign meningiomas may include:

• Surgery. The most common treatment for accessible meningiomas is surgical removal. Surgery may offer a good prognosis if the tumor is benign and operable. The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without risking neurological damage.
• Radiation therapy. If the tumor cannot be completely removed surgically, or if it recurs after surgery, radiation therapy (such as gamma knife radiosurgery) may be used to shrink or stabilize the tumor.
• Observation. For small, asymptomatic meningiomas, doctors may recommend a “wait-and-see” approach with regular imaging to monitor for growth or the development of symptoms.
• Chemotherapy. This is generally reserved for aggressive or malignant meningiomas and is rarely used for benign types.
• Symptomatic treatment. Medications like corticosteroids may reduce inflammation or swelling around the tumor and alleviate symptoms such as headaches or swelling.

Legal Action and Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) for Depo-Provera Injuries

In January 2025, a United States Judicial Panel will decide whether several pending Depo-Provera lawsuits can be consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL). If granted, the makers of the medication may be held liable for manufacturing and selling this dangerous drug. However, there are significant limitations on when a case may be filed so you should get legal advice as soon as possible.

If you believe that Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) has caused your meningioma diagnosis, don’t wait. Consulting with a qualified attorney about Depo-Provera side effects can help you understand your legal options, including the potential for joining a multidistrict litigation. Please call the legal team at WKW at (317) 920-6400 or fill out our contact form to get answers to your questions.

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