How Does the Depo Provera Shot Work?
The Birth Control Injection for Women Lasts for Three Months
For some women, birth control pills are not a convenient method for contraceptive choices. Daily birth control pills can easily be forgotten, or for some women, the pills make them nauseous, bloated, and sick. The Depo Provera shot is a one-time injection that is given to patients. It lasts for up to three months. After the three month’s time has ended, the woman can decide to receive a new Depo Provera shot or receive a different kind of prescription birth control medication.
How does Depo Provera Prevent Pregnancy?
Unlike birth control pills like Yaz, Depo Provera is administered by a physician or nurse. It’s an injection shot into the arm, hip, abdomen or thigh. The Depo Provera shot is comprised of only one hormone, progesterone. Unlike other types of contraceptives, Depo Provera contains no estrogen. However, a Depo Provera shot works similarly to other types of birth control. The high levels of progesterone inhibit the woman’s ovaries to release an egg. Since no egg is dropped into the fallopian tubes and sent to the uterus, the woman is unable to conceive. However, if an egg does drop from the ovaries, the hormones circulating in the woman’s body also creates a thickening of the mucous membrane in the uterus. This thickened lining makes it difficult for the egg to implant in the uterus, so the woman has an extra obstructive measure against pregnancy.
How Safe is Depo Provera?
One side effect of Depo Provera is the increased risk of osteoporosis in women. The increased progesterone levels in the body lower the density of bones. This side effect is especially dangerous for teenagers or young girls who are still growing. Because of its effects on the bones, women who receive Depo Provera shots are encouraged to exercise regularly and take calcium supplements.
Many women report weight gain of at least ten pounds or more when using Depo Provera. When the woman wants to conceive, it may take up to six months for the drug to completely leave the body.
Health Benefits for the Depo Provera Shot
Some clinical studies have shown that there are actually health benefits when using Depo Provera. The birth control shot helps reduce some reproductive cancers like endometrial and ovarian. It also helps protect against pelvic inflammatory disease. Women who usually have painful periods benefit with lighter bleeding and less cramping.
For women looking for a better form of birth control, Depo Provera is a convenient and effective form of contraceptive. Before receiving any type of injection or medication, always check with a doctor and inform him of any type of pre-existing conditions to ensure that the patient’s health is right for Depo Provera.
References:
Feminist Women’s Health Center
Depo Provera Shot
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Health & Wellness
Latest Articles