From the Guidelines
You can get the Depo-Provera injection immediately if it is reasonably certain that you are not pregnant, and you do not need to wait for your next menstrual period. When switching from Yaz to Depo-Provera, the key consideration is to ensure continuous contraceptive coverage without a gap in protection. According to the U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2013 1, the first Depo-Provera injection can be given right away if pregnancy can be ruled out. To switch from Yaz, consider the following steps:
- Take your Yaz pills as scheduled until you are ready to switch
- Get the Depo-Provera injection (150 mg intramuscularly) at any time, as long as you are certain you are not pregnant
- After receiving the injection, you can stop taking Yaz, as the Depo-Provera will provide immediate contraceptive protection Some important considerations when switching to Depo-Provera include:
- If it has been more than 7 days since your menstrual bleeding started, you may need to use backup contraception, such as abstinence or barrier methods, for the next 7 days after the injection
- Depo-Provera may cause different side effects than Yaz, including irregular bleeding, especially in the first few months of use It is essential to schedule follow-up injections every 12 weeks to maintain continuous protection with Depo-Provera.
From the FDA Drug Label
CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Injectable Suspension, USP, when administered at the recommended dose to women every 3 months, inhibits the secretion of gonadotropins which, in turn, prevents follicular maturation and ovulation and results in endometrial thinning. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Switching from Yaz to Depo-Provera
To switch from Yaz (drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol) to Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) for continuous contraceptive coverage, consider the following:
- The studies provided do not directly address the switch from Yaz to Depo-Provera 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, it is known that Yaz is a combined oral contraceptive, and Depo-Provera is a progestin-only injectable contraceptive.
- When switching from a combined oral contraceptive to a progestin-only method, it is generally recommended to start the new method when the current method's hormonal cycle ends or when the next injection is due.
Key Considerations
- Timing of the Switch: The exact timing of the switch may depend on individual factors, such as the woman's menstrual cycle and the timing of her last Yaz pill or Depo-Provera injection.
- Contraceptive Coverage: To ensure continuous contraceptive coverage, it is essential to time the switch correctly and follow the recommended guidelines for starting Depo-Provera.
- Potential Side Effects: Women should be aware of potential side effects when switching to a new contraceptive method, such as changes in menstrual bleeding patterns, mood, or other symptoms.
Additional Information
- The provided studies discuss the safety and efficacy of Yaz and other contraceptive methods, but they do not specifically address the switch from Yaz to Depo-Provera 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Women should consult their healthcare provider for personalized guidance on switching from Yaz to Depo-Provera or any other contraceptive method.