The Shot

Depo–Provera, also known as The Shot or the Depo–shot, is a hormonal shot that is injected into a muscle every 12 weeks (or 3 months). The shot has a high dose of Progestin (no estrogen) and is usually injected into the arm or buttock This is a very safe and effective form of birth control.

The high level of progestin hormone:

• Stops the woman from ovulating (releasing an egg into the fallopian tube)
• Decreases chance that an egg will implant in the wall of the uterus
• Causes the cervical mucus to thicken, which blocks the sperm

To make the Shot most effective you must get your next scheduled shot when your doctor schedules it. If you miss or reschedule your appointment, you need to use a back up birth control method (ex. condom) every time you have sex until you are able to get your shot.

Advantages:

• Private, no one will know that you are on it
• You don’t have to remember it everyday; simply remember your shot every 3 months
• Effective after 24 hours. But, you should use a condom for at least one week after your first shot
• Does not interfere with sex
• Menstrual changes are common including a light period, no period and less cramping
• May decrease risk for ovarian and uterine cancers
• Women can start Depo–Provera 6 weeks after giving birth, or earlier if not breastfeeding
• Safe for breastfeeding women, as long as they wait 6 weeks before getting the first shot

Disadvantages:

• Possible irregular bleeding and/or weight gain
• May experience breast tenderness
• Long–term Depo users may experience bone density loss and risk of osteoporosis
• Does NOT protect against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS
• Requires a shot every 3 months; must return to the doctor every 11 to 13 weeks
• Not possible to discontinue immediately; must wait 3 months until hormones have worn off if you are having bad side effects or wish to become pregnant

The Facts about Depo and Weight Gain

On average, women gain 5.4 pounds in the first year of Depo use. Studies have shown that 70% of Depo users gain about 5 pounds, 20% lose weight and 10% have no weight change. If you are concerned about your weight, remember that gaining 5 pounds while on Depo–Provera is better than gaining 25 pounds or more during an unplanned pregnancy. To prevent weight gain; continue to eat healthy, control your portion sizes, exercise and drink 10 glasses of water a day.