Birth Control Guide - Depo-Provera
What is Depo-Provera?
Depo-Provera is an injection or “shot” of the hormone
progesterone. It is given once every 12 weeks to prevent pregnancy. It stops
your body from making an egg each month. You can use Depo-Provera when you are
breastfeeding. It is best to wait until you have a good milk supply and you are
settled into breastfeeding before you start Depo-Provera.
How well does Depo-Provera work?
Depo-Provera works well when used correctly. For more
information talk to your health care provider. Depo-Provera does not protect
you from sexually transmitted infections. You and your partner should use a
condom.
How is Depo-Provera used?
Depo-Provera works right away if you get it within 5 days
after your period starts. It provides complete birth control for 12 weeks. You
must get a Depo-Provera shot every 10-13 weeks to stay protected. Follow the
recommendations provided by your doctor or nurse practitioner. It can be given
5 days after childbirth, or 5 days after an abortion or miscarriage.
Are there any side effects of Depo-Provera?
For the first few months, the side effects are irregular
periods, spotting, extra bleeding, or missed periods. It is normal for some
women to have no bleeding at all after 6 to 12 months. Some women have sore
breasts, get depressed or gain weight because they want to eat more (increased
appetite). Once Depo-Provera is injected, any side effects will last until the
shot wears off.
After you stop taking Depo-Provera, your body may not
produce eggs again for 6 months to 2 years. You need to be aware that it could
take that long to get pregnant again. You will also need to use other birth
control if you do not want to get pregnant.
You should NOT use Depo-Provera if:
- You are pregnant or think you might be
- You have abnormal bleeding from your vagina
- You have a family history of breast cancer
Using Depo-Provera for a long time can reduce calcium in
your bones. Ask your doctor about calcium pills and foods that have lots of
calcium.
Will Depo-Provera affect our sex life?
Depo-Provera works well to prevent pregnancy, so some women
find they enjoy sex more because they do not have to worry about this.
How can I get Depo-Provera?
You need to get a prescription from your family doctor or
the doctor at a Sexual Health Centre. Take the prescription to a drug store. A
public health nurse at the Sexual Health Centre or your doctor will give you
the Depo-Provera shot.
