Depo-Provera (Contraceptive Shot/Injection)

What is Depo Provera used for?

Depo Provera is a well-known brand name for Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA), an injection that contains the hormone progestin. It is administered once every 12 weeks for contraception.

It can be used as a contraceptive injection to prevent pregnancy: It works by preventing ovulation and increasing the viscosity of the cervical mucus.

It can also be used in the treatment of certain gynecology issues such as endometriosis and menopausal symptoms.

How well does it work?

Depo Provera is a highly effective method of contraception when it is given every three months - 99.8% effective (with perfect use), 94% (with typical use). The chance of pregnancy while a patient is on Depo Provera is lower compared to other birth control methods - such as pills and patches.

Advantages of Depo Provera

• Depo Provera is highly effective with a very low failure rate.
• Higher compliance as there will not be issues with missed pill or patches.
• Light periods and relief of period cramps (for some, period may stop completely) with long term use.
• May help improve premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
• May offer some reduction in risk of ovarian cancer, endometrial (uterine) cancer, endometriosis and possibly pelvic infection.
• Safe contraception method immediately after giving birth.
• Safe with breastfeeding.

Disadvantages of Depo Provera

• Depo Provera injection needs to be repeated every 12 weeks for it to remain effective.
• Once the injection is given, the hormone cannot be removed from the body. The return of a patient's period (and fertility) may take up to 1-2 years, for the injection effect to be worn off.
• Does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

What are the possible side effects of Depo Provera?​

• Variable bleeding pattern (such as spotting, irregular, light or heavy bleeding) may occur between your periods especially in the first 6 to 9 months of treatment.
• Amenorrhea (period completely stops) may occur after long term usage (6months - 1 year and above).
• Nausea, vomiting, bloating and stomach cramps.
• Breast tenderness.
• Headache or migraine. You may take Paracetamol to manage headaches.
• Weight changes, mood swings.
• Acne.
• It is associated with a small loss in bone mineral density, particularly for long term usage (> 2 years). Tis will usually recover on stopping Depo Provera.

Check with your doctor about any symptoms that become bothersome.

Who should not use Depo Provera?

Depo Provera is not suitable for the following groups of patients:

• If you ever experienced unexplained vaginal bleeding not discussed with a health care provider.
• You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
• You have a history of or current medical conditions such as liver problems, underlying risk factors for osteoporosis, breast or hormone related cancers.

If you are seeing other healthcare professionals for any other medical conditions, inform them that you are on this medication.

The above information answers some common questions about this medicine. It does not contain all the available information. It also does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

References

NUH Contraception booklet.

Depo Provera Patient Information Leaflet.