What is
Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is a contraceptive, often
referred to as "depo." Depo-Provera consists of the hormone
medroxyprogesterone which is similar to the body's natural
hormone progesterone. High levels of this hormone in your
body prevents your ovaries from releasing an egg for the
next 3 months. If eggs are not released, you cannot get
pregnant.
How is it
used?
Depo-Provera is given by a shot. You need to
get the shot every 12 weeks (4 times per year). The shot
usually goes into the arm muscle and hurts less than a
regular vaccine shot. Occasionally there is irregular
bleeding after the first or second shot, but usually your
periods stop after 6 to 9 months of starting Depo-Provera.
If you have already started having sex, then
you should have a pelvic exam and a pregnancy test done
before you start on this method of birth control. The first
Depo shot should be given within the first 5 days of
starting a period. This helps to make sure that you are not
pregnant.
You should remember that although
Depo-Provera prevents pregnancy, it does not prevent
sexually transmitted infections. Condoms need to be used to
decrease the chance of getting a sexually transmitted
infection.
What are the
benefits?
- Depo-Provera is a very private method
of birth control. No one can tell if you got a shot, and
you do not have to worry about taking a pill everyday.
- Depo-Provera prevents pregnancy 99% of
the time.
What are the risks?
Side effects of taking Depo-Provera include
weight gain (usually due to an increased appetite),
irregular bleeding, and occasional headaches. It may take 6
to 18 months for your periods to return to normal after
stopping the shot.
A long-term risk of taking Depo-Provera is
osteoporosis. Bones may lose calcium if you take it for a
long time.
When should I
call my health care provider?
Call if:
- you have heavy vaginal bleeding
- you have an abnormal vaginal discharge
- you have bleeding that lasts for more
than 10 days
- you have severe cramps or abdominal
pain.
It is recommended that you talk with a doctor and your
parents about birth control options.
