What is Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) used for?

Depo-Provera is a hormone injection that lasts for 3 months to prevent pregnancy. The injection has synthetic progesterone and no estrogen. It is usually given in the arm or rear, delivering a high level of progesterone into the body.

Depo-Provera stops the ovaries from releasing eggs. It thickens the cervical mucus and changes the uterine lining, making it harder for sperm to enter or survive in the uterus. These changes prevent fertilization. Depo-Provera is a very private form of birth control because it cannot be seen on the body and requires no home supplies. It does, however, require a clinic appointment every 3 months. Depo Provera is 99.7% effective as birth control. It does not protect against reproductive tract infections, including HIV/AIDS.

How should I use Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate)?

The first shot of Depo-Provera is usually given during or a few days after the start of a menstrual period. After 24 hours, the shot is effective birth control for the next 13 weeks. Many women find it useful to schedule their next shot slightly earlier than necessary; if something prevents them from making their appointment, there will be a window of opportunity to receive their next shot. If you are more than a week late for your shot, use a backup method of birth control for the next two weeks. If you are more than a week late and you have had unprotected sex since your last shot, consider taking a pregnancy test before receiving the next dose.

What are the side effects of Depo-Provera (Medroxyprogesterone Acetate)?

• weight gain
• irregular, heavy periods, or no bleeding
• may stop having periods
• headaches
• nervousness
• mood changes
• bloating
• hot flashes
• decreased interest in sex
• breast tenderness
• acne
• hair loss
• back pain

Please Note

Women who use Depo Provera may face an increased risk of osteoporosis and are advised to exercise and take in plenty of calcium. Some studies suggest, however, that bone density is restored once women stop taking Depo Provera. If a woman becomes pregnant while using Depo Provera, and continues her pregnancy, there may be an increased risk of premature birth. Women can start Depo Provera 6 weeks after giving birth. The effects of Depo Provera on breast cancer are still unknown.