Must-Know Facts About Starting and Stopping Depo-Provera

Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone) is an injectable birth control method. It is very effective at preventing pregnancy. Depo-Provera contains progestin, a synthetic progesterone hormone.

Many people are satisfied with Depo-Provera. Getting a shot only four times a year is convenient compared to taking the pill every day. Because it does not contain estrogen, you can even start Depo while you are breastfeeding.

This article discusses what to expect when starting Depo-Provera. It also discusses common side effects, and what to expect when you stop using this form of birth control.

Before Starting Depo-Provera

Before you get your first Depo-Provera shot, you will need to be examined by a doctor. Your doctor will also review your health history. This is because Depo-Provera is a hormonal birth control method. Hormonal birth control is not right for everyone.

The manufacturer of Depo-Provera recommends the following tests:

• Blood pressure check
• Breast exam
• Abdominal exam
• Pelvic exam
• Pap smear
• Blood work, if relevant

Starting Depo-Provera

You should get your first Depo-Provera shot during the first five days of your period. This ensures you are not pregnant when you get the shot. If you get the shot at any other time in your cycle, you should get a pregnancy test first.

If you receive your first shot during the first five days of your period, Depo-Provera will provide immediate pregnancy protection. You won't need to use a backup birth control method.

Side Effects of Depo-Provera

Before starting Depo-Provera, it is important to discuss potential side effects with your doctor.

Bleeding

Some people have irregular or prolonged bleeding while using Depo-Provera. Others will not have any problems with bleeding.

Spotting and continuous bleeding are the main reasons people stop taking Depo-Provera. People who use Depo-Provera are more likely to stay on it if they are counseled about this potential side effect before receiving their first injection.

There is no way to know ahead of time if you will experience irregular bleeding or spotting. The bleeding may continue until the progestin wears off. This can take up to 11 to 14 weeks after you stop getting the shot.

Research suggests all bleeding stops for about 50% of people who use Depo-Provera continuously for one year. This includes regular monthly bleeding. With continued use, that number rises to 70%.

Bone Density Loss

Depo-Provera may cause bone mineral density loss. This leads to thinning bones and a high risk of bone fractures. Studies have shown that this may reverse when you stop getting Depo-Provera shots.

Try to maintain a healthy lifestyle while you are using Depo-Provera. This can help offset possible calcium loss in your bones.

Make sure you are getting plenty of calcium. Do weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises. Avoid tobacco and drink alcohol in moderation, or not at all.

Weight Gain

Some people gain weight after starting Depo-Provera. Discuss diet and exercise with your doctor before receiving your first shot. Sensible eating and regular exercise may help minimize your weight gain.

Depression

Depression affects approximately 9% of people who use this form of birth control. Talk to your doctor about this possible side effect before starting Depo-Provera.

Stopping Depo-Provera

You can stop using Depo-Provera at any time by simply not getting the next shot.

Because Depo-Provera may cause bone density loss, you should not use it for more than two years. Discuss other birth control options with your doctor at that time.

Getting Pregnant After Depo-Provera

Each Depo-Provera injection lasts about three months. If you decide to get pregnant after stopping Depo-Provera, you will need to plan ahead.

It takes an average of seven to 10 months to regain fertility and begin ovulating after stopping Depo-Provera. Ovulation is when you release an egg each month and are able to become pregnant. Rarely, it can take up to 18 months.

It is possible for fertility to return once your last Depo shot has worn off. For most people, though, getting pregnant after Depo-Provera will take time.

Summary

Depo-Provera is an injectable birth control method. It is taken four times a year. Before starting Depo-Provera, it is important to have a health exam.

Side effects of this form of birth control include weight gain and spotting or prolonged bleeding. These are some of the reasons why people stop using Depo-Provera. In most cases, though, bleeding will stop after one year.

Stop using Depo-Provera one year before you want to become pregnant.