WHAT IS DEPO PROVERA?
Depo Provera is a contraceptive injection containing progestogen. It is commonly referred to as “the injection” or "DP".
Progestogen is similar to one of the hormones produced naturally by a woman's ovaries. The injection is given every 12 weeks.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
It prevents pregnancy by stopping the ovaries releasing an egg each month. There are also changes to the lining of the womb (endometrium).
HOW WELL DOES IT WORK?
Typically, Depo Provera is 97% effective. This means three out of 100 women will get pregnant each year.
If you have your injections on time (every 12 weeks) it can be more than 99% effective.
WHAT WILL I NOTICE?
Some women have irregular or prolonged bleeding, especially in the first three to six months. This is safe for your body and there are pills to stop this if it happens.
Most women (70%) will have no periods after four injections. This is safe.
WHO CAN USE IT?
Almost all women can use Depo Provera, even women who cannot use the combined contraceptive pill.
WHO SHOULD NOT USE IT?
Women who have had breast cancer.
Women who are planning a pregnancy in the next few months may prefer to use a different type of contraceptive.
WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?
Almost 100% effective.
Convenient.
Lasts for 12 weeks.
No daily pill taking.
Doesn’t interfere with sexual intercourse.
No one else needs to know you are using it.
Reduces the risk of endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the womb) by 80%.
Helps women who have heavy or painful periods.
WHAT ARE THE DISADVANTAGES?
Once you have had an injection of Depo Provera, it lasts at least 12 weeks which can be a nuisance if you experience a side effect.
Some women have irregular or prolonged bleeding. This is more common on first starting to use Depo Provera and often improves with time.
POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS
Weight changes
Some women put on weight, some lose weight, most do not change weight Allergic reaction but this is extremely rare.
The research does NOT show that the injection causes any change in mood, libido or headache.
Bone Density
Depo Provera has been associated with a reduction in bone density. This improves after stopping Depo Provera.
Cancer
The risk of endometrial cancer is reduced by 80%. There is no overall change in the rate of cancer of the cervix, the ovary or breast cancer.
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