Product Review: Depo-Provera

There are new birth control pills on the market that allow a woman to have fewer periods. I don't think any of us women enjoy periods so those pills seem fantastic. But let's not forget about Depo-provera, which has been around for a while.

The basis of Depo-provera's appeal, at least for me, is the fact you only have to remember it once every three months. Just put your appointment reminder card in your calendar and forget about it for a while. This is great for women like me who have trouble remembering a daily multivitamin, let alone anything else. Even if a pregnancy isn't possible, it's still a good idea to keep your hormone levels constant so you feel better. (After a missed pill or two I would feel "off").

A common side effect of Depo-provera is spotting. I had reservations about this, but switched to the shot anyway. It has been my experience that the spotting was not very bad. A slight amount at first soon changed to very slight amounts only when the shot is wearing off. Since it is somewhat predictable and very slight it is much more manageable than a period. And speaking of those pesky buggers, I'm not sure I specifically remember the last time I had one.

Another side effect may women have to watch out for is calcium depletion. Since I cannot eat dairy products this is a little more problematic for me than it probably is for others. However, consuming calcium enriched soy products and taking calcium supplements can go a long way. For a while at least, I should be able to maintain bone health. (Women should be careful of this issue - an acquaintance of mine was on Depo-provera for several years and did not take calcium or get enough of it in her diet. She got osteoporosis at the age of 22).

The Depo-provera shot is a little expensive. If you have to pay for your birth control out of pocket, expect to pay about $80 a shot. However, a pack of birth control pills is usually about $20 a pack. I consider the expense worth it because pills would cost about the same per month, and the shot is much more convenient.

I have been pleased with my decision to switch from pills to Depo-provera. The shot is more convenient and easier to remember, hasn't produced may side effects, and cost is about the same.