Patient Information: Birth Control
Depo-Provera for Birth Control
What is it and How Does it Work?
A shot (hormone) is given every three months to prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. Also, changes the lining of the uterus (womb). Will need to use another birth control method the first two weeks for protection against pregnancy. Must get from a health care provider.
How is it Used?
The shots are given in the hip or upper arm once every twelve weeks. They
may be given earlier than 12 weeks if you cannot keep your appointment
at the scheduled time. Shots should not be given more than two weeks late
or you could become pregnant.
How Well Does it Work?
Less than 1% of users become pregnant during the first year of use. This
means it works as well as birth control pills or female sterilization
(tubes tied).
Advantages of Depo-Provera.
- Safe and effective and simple to use. Usually have no menstrual periods while getting the injections. Safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Disadvantages of Depo-Provera.
- Commonly causes irregular bleeding. Possible side effects include weight gain, headaches, or mood changes. No protection against sexually transmitted disease and HIV.
Who Should not Take Depo-Provera?
- Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant.
- Women who have irregular vaginal bleeding that has not been evaluated
by a doctor.
- Women who have certain types of liver disease.
- Women with cancer of the breast.
Follow-up
A return visit to the clinic must be made twelve weeks after you receive
your shot of Depo-Provera. This clinic visit will be for the nurse to
give you your next shot only. If you are wanting to change to another
kind of birth control, please call the Scheduling Office (319-356-2294)
for a gynecology appointment. This type of appointment will give you enough
time to see the provider.
Regular annual (yearly) exams are to be scheduled for your routine health
care. Peer Review Status: Internally
Peer Review Date: 2004
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