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Depo-Provera®


What Is It?

A long-acting form of the hormone progestin, given by injection


How Does It Work?

  • Thickens cervical mucus, preventing sperm penetration
  • Prevents ovulation

How Is It Used?

The woman is given an injection into the upper arm or buttocks every 3 months


Effectiveness:

Almost 100%

  • Works for 3 months
  • Failure rate increases if shot is not repeated every 3 months

Benefits:

  • Works for 3 months
  • Does not interfere with sex
  • Can be used while breastfeeding
  • Can be used by women with a history of seizures or sickle cell anemia

Possible Concerns:

  • Need to return for shot every 3 months
  • May cause irregular bleeding, spotting, missed periods or no periods
  • Side effects may include weight gain, depression, breast tenderness, headaches or allergic reaction
  • These side effects may last for up to 6 months after last injection
  • May cause delay in ability to get pregnant after stopping shots
  • May cause bone loss or density changes with long term use

DOES NOT REDUCE THE RISK OF HIV/AIDS OR STDs







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