Contraceptive Injections

The Depo Provera injection is suitable for you if you do not wish to take a pill everyday but also do not wish to commit to a long acting, reversible form of birth control that lasts a few years (such as the intrauterine device or implant). 

It is specifically suitable for individuals who need to avoid estrogen which is found in other forms of contraceptives. 

It is not suitable for individuals with existing health conditions including breast or hormone related cancers, unexplained vaginal bleeding, liver disease, underlying risk factors for osteoporosis.

Pros:

• It is a highly effective and convenient form of contraception with no daily pill taking required and allows for sexual spontaneity without worrying about unplanned pregnancy. 
• For women with heavy or painful menses (menorrhagia or dysmenorrheal), it can help alleviate these symptoms.

Cons:

• Having to make a trip to clinic once every 12 weeks.
• If you experience unpleasant side effects, they may take a while to wear off as the injection lasts 12 weeks. 
• Depo-Provera does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
• You may experience a delay in return to fertility of several months after stopping Depo-Provera. 

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• Irregular bleeding or spotting is common, which can be managed with additional medication 
• Lighter or no menstrual periods (amenorrhoea)
• A gradual reduction in bone density (and risk of osteoporosis) but bone density returns to normal within 1-3 years after stopping Depo-Provera
• Headaches 
• Nervousness
• Mood changes 
• Possible changes in weight 
• Skin changes 
• Bloating
• Hair loss
• Acne

You may experience some irregular bleeding or spotting after the first injection. This may continue in some women and is a side effect of Depo-Provera. Your period may be lighter. One third of women may stop getting their periods altogether after the first 4 injections, whilst on Depo-Provera.

If you receive Depo-Provera during the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle, you are protected against unplanned pregnancy immediately. However, if you receive the injection at any other point during your menstrual cycle, you will need to use additional protection for at least a week. 

Provided you receive your injection at regular 12 week intervals, you will have continued protection.

The return to fertility can be as fast as 14 weeks after stopping Depo-Provera. However, in many women, there may be a lag time of several months so the Depo-Provera injection may not be suitable for someone who intends to conceive soon.