Depio Provera

Depio Provera is an injectable form of medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic progestin hormone that mimics progesterone to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach an egg. Given as a shot in the muscle every 3 months, it’s highly effective for birth control, with over 99% success when timed properly. It also helps manage conditions like endometriosis by reducing uterine lining growth and easing related pain. The injection provides long-lasting effects without daily dosing, but fertility may take 6–12 months to return after stopping.

Expert Review

Dr. Nighat Shah, a prominent Pakistani gynecologist and women’s health advocate, discusses medroxyprogesterone’s role in contraception and endometriosis management. She notes its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy by suppressing ovulation and its benefits for reducing pelvic pain, but highlights the need for bone density monitoring with long-term use due to potential calcium loss.

Primary Uses

• Prevents pregnancy as a long-acting contraceptive.
• Treats endometriosis and abnormal uterine bleeding.
• Manages amenorrhea due to hormonal imbalance.

Indications

Prescribed for contraception in women, relief of endometriosis symptoms, and treatment of abnormal uterine bleeding or secondary amenorrhea not caused by organic issues like fibroids.

Side Effects

Common ones include irregular or absent periods, weight gain, headaches, nausea, abdominal pain, breast tenderness, mood changes, acne, or hair loss. Less common: bone thinning with prolonged use, spotting, or vaginal discharge changes. Contact your doctor if severe or persistent.

Warnings

• Pregnancy: Not for use if pregnant—may harm the fetus. Confirm non-pregnancy before first dose.
• Lactation: Wait 6 weeks postpartum; small amounts pass into milk but unlikely to affect baby.
• Driving: Generally safe, but avoid if dizziness occurs.
• Alcohol: Limit to avoid worsening mood or nausea.
• Bone Health: Long-term use (over 2 years) may reduce bone density—increase calcium/vitamin D intake.

Precautions

• Monitor bone density if using long-term or with risk factors like smoking or low BMI.
• Inform your doctor if you have diabetes, depression, liver issues, or blood clots.
• Doesn’t protect against STIs—use condoms for that.
• Return of fertility may be delayed after stopping.

Contraindications

Avoid if:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding in first 6 weeks postpartum.
• History of breast cancer, liver disease, undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, stroke, or blood clots.
• Allergic to medroxyprogesterone.

How to Use

Administered by a healthcare provider as an intramuscular injection (usually in the arm or buttock) every 12–13 weeks. First dose within 5 days of period start for immediate effect; otherwise, use backup contraception for 7 days.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15–30°C), away from light and moisture. Keep out of children’s reach.

Quick Tips

• Schedule injections on time—effectiveness drops if delayed over 2 weeks.
• Track weight and mood changes; report to your doctor.
• Combine with calcium-rich foods to support bone health.
• Discuss alternatives if planning pregnancy soon.

Disclaimer

This information is for general guidance only. Consult a doctor for personalized advice on side effects, precautions, or interactions, as individual needs vary.