Depo-Provera

 

1.          What is Depo-provera?

It is a birth control method which is given as an intramuscular injection 3 monthly containing a synthetic hormone progestin called depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA).
2.          How does it prevent pregnancy?
  • It prevents ovulation
  • It thickens the cervical mucus preventing the sperm from entering the uterus (womb) and fertilizing an egg
  • It prevents implantation by thinning out the inner lining of the uterus.
3.          What is the effectiveness of Depo-provera in preventing pregnancy?
It is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly.
4.         Can anyone use Depo-provera?
             These women below should not use the Depo-provera:
  • You do not want to have any changes in your menstrual cycle.
  • You want to conceive within the next one year.
  • You have a history of blood clots, heart attacks, diabetes, liver or gall bladder disease.
  • You have breast cancer currently or within the last 5 years.
  • High risk of developing osteoporosis.
5.          What are the advantages of Depo-provera?
  • Requires only 3 monthly injections. You do not need to take it every day.
  • Does not affect sexual activity.
  • Causes lighter period and in some women no menses at all.
  • Does not contain the estrogen hormone.
6.          What are the disadvantages of Depo Provera?
  • Requires intramuscular injection which could be painful.
  • Cause changes in your menstrual cycle. It could either be irregular, scanty or heavy and prolonged. Sometimes, you do not have any menses at all.
  • Does not protect against sexually transmitted disease.
  • May cause a delay in return of fertility or menses after ceasing the Depo-provera. Usually, your ovulation returns within 3 – 6 months. However, in some women it could be delayed up to 12 – 18 months.
  • Side effects such as nausea, breast tenderness, dizziness, weight gain of up to 2 -3kg in one year, acne, reduced sexual drive.

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