Depo-Provera is a hormonal  method of contraceptives that can be obtained by prescription. It is an injection containing   synthetic hormone progestin which is called depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA). It has a failure rate of less than one percent when use correctly and effectively.

This birth control is reversible. However it may take several months for your cycle to return to normal. Ovulation usually returns within 3 to 6 months but it is also possible you may not have your cycle for  12 to 18 months after you stop the injection. This is not for someone who wants to get pregnant immediately after stopping use. You should also note that it does protect against sexually transmitted diseases STDs.

How does  Depo-Provera work ?

It works through the synthetic hormone DMPA  which regulates the woman’s ovaries. It works the way the natural hormone progesterone works.

It prevents pregnancy in one of three ways.

• prevents the release of the eggs by the ovaries
• thicken cervical mucus  and prevents sperms from reaching the eggs
• changes the uterine lining to prevent implantation

How is Depo-Provera used ?

It is a prescription birth control and the injection is obtained from the health care provider every 11 to 13 weeks. The synthetic birth control will be injected into the upper arm or buttocks by the health care provider. The initial injections given within the first 5 days of your period.  Follow up injection will be repeated every 11 to 13 weeks.

What are the side effects of Depo-Provera ?

Irregular bleeding is the most common side effect. However for most women, after a year of use, periods usually become fewer and lighter or may stop altogether.Other side effects are similar to those of oral or  hormonal contraceptives and include :

• breast tenderness
• headaches
• nausea
• fatigue
• breast tenderness
• dizziness
• moderate weight gain

Some people have also reported

• acne
• depression
• hair loss or excessive hair growth
• bloating
• backache
• anxiety
• loss of sex drive

What are the pros and cons of this birth control?

PROS

• highly effective when used correctly
• does not inhibit sexual spontaneity
• you do not have to remember to take a pill each day
• light period or possibly no period after a year
• does not contain estrogen making it good for women who cannot take estrogen
• prevent uterine fibroids and may  have a protective effect against ovarian and endometrial cancers

CONS

• doesn’t protect against STDs
• requires prescription and a visit to the doctor
• injections may be painful
• irregular bleeding which may include prolonged  or heavier menstrual flow
• may experience a longer delayed  infertility after you stop the injections

NOTE

The Depo-Provera injection is given between the first and last day of your menstrual flow. Protection against pregnancy starts immediately.  If you miss an injection, you will need to use a backup birth control until you get your next injection.

Seek your doctor’s permission before use if you have the following conditions :

• diabetes
• depression
• high blood pressure
• history of liver disease
• big risk for heart disease
• history of blood clotting conditions

Call your doctor if you

• have heavy or prolonged bleeding
• yellowing of skin or eyes
• intense pain in the abdominal area
• any new lumps in your breasts
• major depression
• intense pain in the abdominal area