Depo-Provera Injection

What is Depo-Provera Injection

Depo-Provera Injection is used for contraception (preventing pregnancy). It helps to prevent development and release of egg from the ovaries during menstrual cycle thus prevents pregnancy.

Depo-Provera Injection is administered only by or under the supervision of doctor. It should be taken as your doctor advice. Your doctor will decide how much you need to take and for how much time. You should take this injection for as long as it is prescribed for you.

The most common side effects of this medicine include headache, dizziness, abdominal pain, nervousness, weight gain, and breast tenderness. If any of these bothers you, let your doctor know. There may be ways of reducing or preventing them. It may also cause irregular menstrual cycle, spotting or your menstrual bleeds to stop altogether. Inform your doctor if you get heavy or prolonged bleeding.

Before taking this medicine, you must let your doctor know if you ever had any problems like history of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, liver, or bleeding problems. Your doctor should also know about all other medicines you are taking as many of these may make this medicine less effective or change the way it works. You must not take it if you are pregnant.

Benefits of Depo-Provera Injection

In Treatment of Abnormal uterine bleeding

Depo-Provera Injection is a synthetic progestin that replicates the effect of a natural female hormone called progesterone. It slows the growth of the lining of the womb before menstruation, which reduces the bleeding during menstruation. If heavy periods become such a problem that they interfere with your everyday life, then try taking things a little easier on those days. Some women find that relaxation techniques or yoga help them feel more relaxed and reduce stress. Getting a lot of exercise can also help.

Side effects of Depo-Provera Injection

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Depo-Provera

• Weight gain
• Breast tenderness
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Irregular menstrual cycle
• Nervousness

Quick tips

• Depo-Provera Injection is used for preventing pregnancy (contraception).
• To avoid the risk of becoming pregnant you must take the injection once after every 12 weeks.
• It is usually given into the muscle of the buttock or upper arm.
• The injection cannot be reversed once it has been given and its effects last for at least 12 weeks.
• Fertility does return once the injections are stopped, but the time varies for each woman.
• It may cause irregular bleeding, spotting or your menstrual bleeds to stop altogether. Inform your doctor if you get heavy or prolonged bleeding.
• Long term use can cause a loss of bone mineral density and increase the risk of weak bones and osteoporosis.
• Do not take Depo-Provera Injection if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a history of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, liver problems, or bleeding problems.