What’s Depo-Provera?

Depo-Provera is a relatively new contraception method given to women by injection that has proved its effectiveness.  Like the contraceptive pill, it hinders the liberation of an egg (ovule) from the ovaries.  It also thins the lining of the uterus, which prevents a fertilized egg from nestling in.Â

Depo-Provera is given by injection in the muscles of the arms or legs every 12 weeks.  This injection contains the hormone progestin and doesn’t contain estrogen.  It is up to 99.7% effective against pregnancy.

This contraceptive method offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STI’s).  Therefore, use condoms for STI prevention.

To get Depo-Provera you must obtain a prescription from your doctor.

Precautions…

It is recommended that Depo-Provera users take calcium and vitamin D supplements to protect against thinning bones (osteoporosis) and other bone diseases.

How much does it cost?

You must get a prescription to get this injection.  It will be administered by a nurse in the clinic of your choice or in a CLSC (for Quebec residents).  It costs about 40$ per injection, or 40$ every three months.

How to use it and practical tips

• You must first get a prescription from your doctor.
• The first injection must be administered within five days of the beginning of your menstrual cycle.
• Depo-Provera becomes effective 24 hours after the injection.
• You must have the next injection 12 weeks later.  If the injection is given later than scheduled, there might be a period where Depo-Provera is ineffective.

What are the Pros and Cons?

• If you often forget to take your Pill, Depo-Provera is a good option.  You only need to schedule four appointments a year.
• If you decide to have children, fertility can be restored within a few weeks.
• About 50% of women stop having periods during the first year of use.  For women with painful or abundant periods, it’s heaven on earth.
• Depo-Provera reduces the risk of cancer of the uterus

• Depo-Provera offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) or HIV.  Condoms must be used for adequate STI protection.
• Although rare, Depo-Provera might cause weight gain (around 5 lbs in the first year of use) and some irregular bleeding and other minor side effects.
• Unlike the Pill, fertility can take up to nine months to return after the last injection.

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Last modification: 2006-02-03