Depo Shot, aka, Depo-Provera aka the shot is an injection of a hormone – progestin- to prevent pregnancy. Progestin keeps eggs from leaving the ovaries – so no egg joins the sperm. It also makes the cervical mucus thicker, keeping sperm from getting to the eggs. Simply put it’s a shot that goes in your arm or butt cheek and it give you 3 months of pregnancy prevention!
The shot is very effective when used correctly. Remember you need to get a new shot every 12 weeks. If used always, the Shot is 99% effective.
How It Works
Visit your healthcare provider. They will administer the shot.
Side Effects
No protection against STI’s or HIV infections.
Irregular bleeding can occur, especially in the first 6 to 12 months of use.
Because this is a hormonal birth control option, your period may vary. For most women, periods become fewer and lighter. After one year, half of the women who use the birth control shot will stop having periods completely.
Some women have longer, heavier periods.
Some women have increased spotting and light bleeding between periods.
Less common side effects: change in sex drive, change in appetite or weight gain, depression, hair loss or increased hair on the face or body, headache, nausea, and sore breasts.
Note to Self
Because Depo is an injection, any side effects may persist until the shot wears off at 12-14 weeks.
Ask your your healthcare provider about calcium or Vitamin D to keep your bones healthy.