Depo- Provera

Depo-Provera is a hormone injection. The shot can be put in your arm or bottom every 12 weeks. It’s recommended that a doctor does this.  Depo-Provera prevents ovulation (prevents your body from releasing the egg).  It thickens the mucus in your cervix to stop the sperm from reaching an egg that may have been released, and it prevents any fertilized egg from implanting in your uterus.

How effective is Depo Provera?

Depo is 99.7% effective at preventing pregnancy, making it one of the most effective forms of birth control available. It does NOT protect you from any sexually transmitted diseases though. Condoms must be used to protect against the STDs if you are at risk.

PROS:

•  12 weeks of protection from pregnancy
• May reduce menstrual cramping
• No daily pill to take
• No interruption during intercourse
• Some women who cannot use the pill can use Depo safely
• Protection from cancer of the uterus lining
• Protection from some types of anemia
• Can be used while breastfeeding after the baby is 6 weeks old

CONS:

• Possible side effects: No monthly period (some people see this as an advantage), irregular bleeding, increased appetite that may lead to weight gain, headaches, depression, abdominal pains and changes in sex drive
• Side effects last until the medication wears off, which takes up to 12 weeks
• It may take a year or longer to become pregnant once the shots are stopped.

Adapted from http://www.plannedparenthood.org/bc/contrachoices.htm