THE
SHOT (DEPO-PROVERA, DEPOMEDROXYPROGESTERONE ACETATE INJECTION)
History:
Depo-provera (depomedroxyprogesterone or DMPA) is a progestin-only
hormone injection given every 12 weeks (three months) and
prevents ovulation. Approximately 1- 2% of US women select
this option. The progestin hormone is released from the
muscle into which it was injected, and suppresses levels
of two other hormones involved in ovulation, namely FSH
and LH. It is highly effective.
How
it works:
Progestins prevent pregnancy in many ways. They inhibit
ovulation, reduce sperm entry into the uterus by thickening
and reducing cervical mucus, cause a thinner uterine lining,
reduce the ability of the fallopian tubeÕs "fingers" to
catch the egg.
Who
Should and Should Not Use It:
This is a great method for women who want long-term birth
control lasting for three (3) months at a time, without
the hassle of taking pills each day. It is also convenient
for women who have frequent sexual intercourse. It is safest
for those with a monogamous relationship. Because it gives
excellent protection against pregnancy, people with more
than one partner or with a partner who may not be faithful
may be lulled into not using condoms to protect against
STDs. Therefore, it may give a false sense of security.
While you may not get pregnant, you may getÑor giveÑHIV.
You may not be able to use this method if you have a previous
history of breast cancer, stroke, heart disease, are taking
seizure medication, or have advanced diabetes, or if you
have bleeding from your vagina apart from your period.
Summary of Depo-Provera
| Effectiveness
(Failure Rate) |
Typical
Use 3 pregnancies per 1000 couples/year (99.7% effective)
Perfect
Use 3 pregnancies per 1000 couples/year (99.7% effective)
|
| Benefits |
Highly
effective long-term contraception
Decreased
menstrual cramps, minimal spotting or no periods
No
estrogen---safer for smokers (unlike the Pill)
Decreased
risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer
Confidential
means of contraception
No
decreased effectiveness with antibiotics
|
| Risks |
Side
effects include weight gain (average of 16 pounds
over 5 years), breast tenderness, depression, irregular
bleeding, loss of periods, and decrease in bone density.
Side
effects may continue until 6 - 8 months after last
injection
After
stopping Depo-Provera, you may not be able to get
pregnant for 6-12 months.
HDL
cholesterol (good cholesterol) levels fall with use
Possible
immediate allergic reaction to injection
Long
term use may cause decreased bone density and osteoporosis,
especially in smokers
|
|
STD
Protection
|
Absolutely
none. |
| How
to Get It |
Visit
your doctor or health care provider to see if this is
right for you. A prescription is needed. |
| Cost |
About
$35 per injection--$140 per year plus cost of annual
doctor's exam. |
