From the Guidelines
The three-month contraceptive, also known as birth control, is called Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) 1. This injectable contraceptive is administered as a 150 mg shot every 12-13 weeks (approximately three months) by a healthcare provider. The injection contains a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone, which prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining. Some key points to consider when using Depo-Provera include:
- To begin using Depo-Provera, you should get your first injection within the first five days of your period to ensure immediate protection 1.
- Otherwise, you'll need to use a backup method of contraception for seven days after the injection.
- Side effects may include irregular bleeding, weight gain, headaches, and mood changes 1.
- It's essential to return for injections on schedule, as delaying beyond 13 weeks reduces effectiveness.
- Depo-Provera is highly effective (with a 1-year probability of pregnancy of approximately 6% for typical use and 0.2% with perfect use) 1 but provides no protection against sexually transmitted infections, so condoms are recommended for STI prevention 2. When considering Depo-Provera, it's crucial to weigh the benefits and potential side effects, as well as discuss any concerns or questions with a healthcare provider. Additionally, patients receiving DMPA injections should be counseled about age-appropriate recommendations for supplementation with calcium and vitamin D and regular weight-bearing exercise, as well as avoidance of smoking and alcohol to maintain skeletal health 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Injectable Suspension, USP is indicated only for the prevention of pregnancy ... It is a long-term injectable contraceptive in women when administered at 3-month (13-week) intervals.
The three-month contraceptive (birth control) is Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Injectable Suspension, USP 3.
From the Research
Three-Month Contraceptive Options
- The name of the three-month contraceptive, also known as birth control, is Depo Provera 4, 5, 6, 7, 8.
- Depo Provera is a highly effective contraceptive that is given intramuscularly (150 mg/mL) once every 3 months 4, 5, 6.
- It has been approved for use as an injectable contraceptive in many countries, including the United States 4, 5, 7, 8.
Administration and Effectiveness
- The recommended dose of Depo Provera is 150 mg administered every 3 months by deep, intramuscular injection in the gluteal or deltoid muscle 4.
- Depo Provera has a very low failure rate, comparable to modern copper IUDs and lower than many other methods 7.
- It suppresses ovulation for more than 13 weeks in all subjects, with a 97.4% cumulative rate of return to ovulation at 12 months 6.
Side Effects and Considerations
- Common side effects of Depo Provera include menstrual irregularities, amenorrhea, weight gain, headache, nervousness, abdominal pain or discomfort, dizziness, and asthenia 4, 5, 7, 8.
- Long-term use of Depo Provera may contribute to osteoporosis, and patients should be informed of this potential risk 4, 8.
- Depo Provera is contraindicated in women with undiagnosed vaginal bleeding, known or suspected malignancy of breast, thromboembolic disorders, cerebral vascular disease, and liver dysfunction 4.