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DEPO-PROVERA
Depo-Provera is an injectable, long-acting, hormonal contraceptive. Depo-Provera contains a form of the hormone progesterone. There is no estrogen in Depo-Provera, unlike most birth control pills which contain both estrogen and progesterone. It is, therefore, medically safer for some women than birth control pills. It is often referred to as "Depo" or "the shot."
How effective is "the shot?"
Depo-Provera is over 99% effective when given every 12 weeks.
How does Depo-Provera work?
Depo-Provera prevents ovulation (the release of an egg from a woman's ovaries). Without an egg to be fertilized, pregnancy cannot occur.
How and when is Depo-Provera given?
Depo-Provera is given by injection once every 12 weeks. The first injection is often given within five days of the onset of a normal period. A back-up birth control method must be used for one week after the first injection or a late injection.
What are the advantages of Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera provides excellent protection from pregnancy (almost 100% effective). Depo-Provera is also more convenient than some birth control methods because you don't have to remember to take a pill daily, and you don't have to interrupt your sexual activity to put in a barrier contraceptive. Since women often stop menstruating while using Depo-Provera, it improves or stops PMS and heavy menstrual bleeding. "The shot" also reduces the risk of ovarian cancer and uterine cancer, and it does not appear to contribute to breast cancer risk.
What are the disadvantages and side effects?
The primary side effect of having the Depo-Provera shot is irregular bleeding. Initially, many women will experience irregular bleeding or spotting. This may last for 3-6 months, after which periods often stop altogether. Other side effects include weight gain or weight loss, mood changes, and occasional heavy periods. Rare, but possible, side effects include breast discharge, increased acne, decreased sex drive, or depression.
Depo-Provera does not offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
There is no risk to future fertility with Depo-Provera. Pregnancy can occur immediately after discontinuing Depo-Provera even if normal periods have not returned. Most women will resume regular periods within 6 months, although some women will not have normal menstrual cycles for 24 months.
When shouldn't I use Depo-Provera?
You should not use Depo-Provera if you have a suspected or confirmed pregnancy, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, a history of diabetes or vascular problems, abnormal liver function, or malignancy of the reproductive tract.
If you have additional questions about Depo-Provera as a birth control method, call the office Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm or visit the following website: www.depo-provera.com.
How much does Depo-Provera cost?
If you come into Aurora Medical Services, receiving the shot will cost you about $65 without insurance, exam fees excluded. With insurance, the cost will vary.
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How effective is "the shot?"