Depo-Provera: Contraception Administered Every 3 Months

It is not always easy to remember to take the contraceptive pill every day, so how about contraception that is only required every 3 months?

One shot of Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable suspension, USP) is extremely affective and lasts for 13 months before a repeat is required. In fact research has shown that there has been a less than 1% failure rate with this shot.

What could be easier? No need to remember that daily pill, no IUD strings, no diaphragms to have to position correctly, and peace of mind that it is highly unlikely that you will fall pregnant.

But before embarking on any new contraception you need to know how it works and what risks are associated with it.

Depo-Provera and the Prevention of Pregnancy

The Depo-Provera shot changes the lining of the uterus thus making it more difficult for pregnancy to take place. It also stops the ovarian egg cells from maturing and being released from the ovary.

Benefits of Depo-Provera

Convenience is one of the more significant benefits. Full protection for 13 weeks.

Unlike many oral contraceptives Depo-Provera does not contain estrogen, as it is progestin based.

You don't have to carry contraception around with you in your bag.

It is not noticeable during sexual intercourse as some contraceptives are, and therefore is a very private contraception.

If you wish to get pregnant you just do not get the next scheduled injection, and many women fall pregnant within 12-18 months.

And The Risks?

Whenever you use something to mess with your body's natural way there are likely to be risk factors and this also applies to Depo-Provera.

Most commonly noticed is a change in the menstrual cycle. Some women notice there is a decrease in menstrual bleeding whilst others have experienced heavier bleeding. There has also been noted spotting or irregular bleeding. In other cases there has been a complete absence of bleeding.

Any bleeding that is excessive or continuous does need reporting to your doctor.

There are other risks associated with Depo-Provera, such as an increased risk of bone loss and a slight increase in the risk for breast cancer.

Depo-Provera and Side Effects

There are some side effects that are associated with Depo-Provera and these include:

Loss of libido

Weakness and fatigue

Dizziness

Stomach pain

Anxiety

Headaches

Weight gain

Amennorhea (lack of periods)

Irregular periods

Usually, women who are affected by side-affects get relief after the first 2 or 3 injections.

Can Depo-Provera Be Taken By All Women?

The short answer to this is no.

Any woman who thinks that she may be pregnant should not consider having the injection.

If you have had breast cancer, a stroke, blood clots in the leg, or liver problems this is not for you either.

Before receiving the Depo-Provera shot your doctor should perform a GYN exam.

Make sure that your doctor is aware of any of the following health issues:

If there is breast cancer in your family

If you have had an abnormal mammogram

If you have had bleeding from the nipples

Kidney disease

High blood pressure

Migraine

Asthma

Epilepsy

Family history of diabetes

Past or present history of depression

When Should I Get the Depo-Provera Injection?

Your first shot should be given during the first 5 days of your normal menstruation and then regularly at 13 week intervals.

Keep in Mind

Depo-Provera is a contraceptive only and will not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases. If you are not in a long- term relationship with one person then always use a condom to help give protection against STD's, such as HIV/AIDS, gonorrhea, genital herpes, chlamydia ( as well as many others...)

Source:

http://www.fwhc.org/birth-control/bcdepo.htm