From the Research
Medroxyprogesterone (Provera) for Uterine Fibroid-Associated Bleeding
- Medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo Provera) has been studied as a treatment for menorrhagia attributed to uterine fibroids 1.
- A pilot study found that Depo Provera reduced bleeding patterns in 70% of women and increased hemoglobin levels in 15% of women 1.
- Another study found that progestogen-releasing intrauterine systems, including those containing medroxyprogesterone, may reduce menstrual blood loss in premenopausal women with uterine fibroids 2, 3.
- Add-back therapy with medroxyprogesterone (MPA) has been studied in combination with GnRH analogues for uterine fibroids, but the evidence is limited and of low quality 4.
- The use of medroxyprogesterone for uterine fibroid-associated bleeding is not universally recommended, and more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness 5, 2, 3.
Key Findings
- Medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo Provera) may be effective in reducing bleeding patterns and increasing hemoglobin levels in women with uterine fibroids 1.
- Progestogen-releasing intrauterine systems, including those containing medroxyprogesterone, may reduce menstrual blood loss in premenopausal women with uterine fibroids 2, 3.
- Add-back therapy with medroxyprogesterone (MPA) may have adverse effects, such as increased uterine volume, and its effectiveness is not well established 4.
Treatment Options
- Medical treatments for uterine fibroid-associated bleeding include symptomatic agents, hormonal therapies, and progestogen-releasing intrauterine systems 5.
- Surgical options, such as myomectomy and hysterectomy, may also be considered for women with uterine fibroids 5.
- Radiologic interventions, such as uterine artery embolization and magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound, are also available 5.