Depo Provera Injections

Depo Provera (Depo) Injections are hormonal injections administered quarterly. The injection is administered in either the upper arm, upper leg or buttock. Depo Provera lasts for three months, and the effectiveness is about 99%. The effectiveness of Depo tends to be much higher than other forms of contraception due to not relying on day-to-day patient compliance. The failure rate for Depo has an average rate of less than 1%.

The patient will receive the injection after a brief medical screening and a negative pregnancy test. The patient must receive Depo within the first five days of hermenstrual cycle. Once the injection is received the patient may experience reduced or increased bleeding, and bleeding in between periods. With prolonged use, Depo may cause periods to stop all together.

The Depo shot releases a synthetic progestin hormone into the blood stream called Depo-Medroxyprogesterone Acetate. This hormone prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation, then thickening cervical mucus which impedes the sperm’s motility, rendering it incapable of reaching an egg, should ovulation occur. Lastly, Depo alters the uterine lining which makes implantation of an egg difficult.

Depo-Provera is reversible, should patients wish to conceive. Most patients begin to ovulate and experience regular periods within 12-18 months after discontinuing use. It is advised that patients consider other birth control options should they wish to become pregnant quickly after non-use of contraception.