Depo Provera

(Birth Control injection given every 12 weeks)

Depo Provera is a hormonal substance (Progestin) that prevents
ovulation (egg production) in a woman from occurring for 12
weeks.

Basic Information

? Intramuscular (into the muscle) injection into either the upper
arm or buttocks
? Failure rate less than 1 pregnancy per 100 women per year
with injections 12 weeks apart and first injection is in the first
five days of your period
? Reversible form of birth control. Most woman can obtain
pregnancy within a year of discontinuing Depo Provera
? Does NOT protect from Sexually Transmitted Diseases
(including HIV/AIDS). PLEASE also use condoms!!

Why You May Not Be Able to Use Depo Provera

? Known or suspected pregnancy
? Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
? Known or suspected breast cancer
? Active blood clots or current or past history of clot disorders
in the legs, lungs, or eyes: or if you have had a stroke
? Liver disfunction or disease (recent mono, hepatitis, growth)
? Known sensitivity to Depo Provera or to any of its
ingredients. Have you ever had an allergic reaction to local
anesthetic at the dentist?

Possible Side Effects

? Weight gain. Average is 5 pounds, increases your appetite.
? Menstrual irregularity- usually spotting. Possibly no periods
by second or third injection.
? Headaches
? Abdominal Bloating
? Breast tenderness
? Tiredness, weakness
? Dizziness
? Depression, nervousness
? Nausea
? No hair growth or loss or thinning of hair
? Skin rash or increased acne
? Increase or decrease in sex drive

Severe Side Effects that require emergent care (ER)

? Sharp chest pain, coughing of blood, sudden shortness of
breath
? Sudden severe headache, vomiting, dizziness, or fainting
? Visual disturbance (double vision, blurred vision, spots
before your eyes)
? Speech disturbance (slurred or unable to speak)
? Weakness or numbness in arm or leg
? Severe pain or swelling in calf or leg
? Unusually heavy vaginal bleeding (unlike usual periods)
? Severe pain or tenderness in lower abdomen or pelvis

Steps to Take to Begin or Continue Depo Provera

? Have a well woman exam including PAP, pelvic, and breast
exams
? First injection should be in the first five days of your period
(you will want to have your PAP prior to this)
? Continuing injections are every 12 weeks
? Pregnancy testing is required prior to every injection