The Shot (Depo-Provera), is a hormonal birth control injection that is given every 12 weeks. Depo-Provera prevents pregnancy by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). It is one of the most effective methods of birth control.
Depo-Provera is given as 1 shot in the buttock or upper arm. The first shot should be given within 5 days after the beginning of a normal menstrual period or an abortion. The shot must be repeated every 3 months to prevent pregnancy.
How to decide if the Shot is a good birth control choice for you:
- If you have trouble swallowing a pill or can't remember to take a daily birth control pill at the same time every day.
- If you are a nursing mother, this is a particularly good choice.
- The Shot must be prescribed and is given every 3 months in our health clinic, so if that is not an option for you then the Shot may not be a good birth control choice.
- The Shot is not recommended for women who have had blood clots, certain types of cancers, or certain types of migraine headaches.
Please learn more about Depo-Provera by choosing any of the questions below.
How effective is the Shot?
The Shot is 99% effective, making it one of the most effective birth control methods available.
How do I get the Shot?
You must get shot of Depo-Provera every three months from a health care provider
What are the advantages and disadvantages of the Shot?
Advantages:
- Each shot works for 12 weeks
- Helps prevent cancer of the uterus (womb)
- No pill to take daily
- Can be used while breastfeeding
- Available at the Health Center
Disadvantages and Side Effects:
- May cause changes in your period (spotting, no periods or heavier periods)
- May cause changes in sex drive, weight gain, hair or skin changes, depression
- May cause water retention
- May cause delay in getting pregnant after shots are stopped
- Side effects can continue for up to 6 months after stopping the shots
- May lose bone mineral density with continued use
What are the warning signs of problems with the Shot?
Warning signs include:
- Severe mood changes
- Severe headaches, esp. with vision disturbances
- Heavy bleeding
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyeballs)
- Severe abdominal pain or chest pain
- Severe leg pain with swelling
SPECIAL NOTES
Depo-Provera does not protect you against STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). Use condoms and spermicide along with the patch to prevent transmission of HIV and other STDs. Skipping periods while on Depo-Provera is common. Although rare, pregnancies that occur while on Depo-Provera are more likely to be ectopic. Because you will not have a regular menstrual cycle, it’s important to be aware of other signs of pregnancy such as nausea, breast tenderness, and excessive fatigue. Have a pregnancy test promptly if you suspect you could be pregnant. Always inform health care providers that you are on Depo-Provera. This is especially important if you are prescribed other medications, if you are hospitalized, or if you are being treated for a medical problem.