Getting Pregnant and Infertility After Depo-Provera

Depo-Provera is a birth control method for a woman. It is a type of hormone that is made up similar to progesterone. It is given as an injection by a doctor into the woman’s buttocks or arm. This shot provides protection against pregnancy for up to 14 weeks. It must be received once every 12 weeks to remain fully protected. 

Three to four months after your last Depo-Provera shot, You could become pregnant. However, it may take up to a year or two to conceive for some women after they stop using their Depo shot.

Depo-Provera is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. It does not prevent the spreading of STDs. To help protect yourself from STDs, use a latex male condom each time you and your partner have sex.

Feel free to contact one of our offices to talk to one of our doctors today to determine if Depo-Provera is right for you.

What Are the Advantages of Using Depo-Provera?

There are several advantages to using Depo-Provera:

• You don’t have to use it before sex, and you don’t have to remember to take it every day.
• It provides long-term protection as long as you get the shot every three months.
• It doesn’t interfere with sexual activity.
• It’s over 99% effective.
• It’s less expensive than the Pill.

Are There Side Effects Associated With Depo-Provera?

Depo-Provera can cause some side effects, including:

• Irregular menstrual periods, or no periods at all
• Nervousness
• Headaches
• Depression
• Dizziness
• Acne
• Changes in appetite
• Weight gain
• Loss of bone mineral density

Can Any Woman Use Depo-Provera?

Most women can use Depo-Provera. However, it is not recommended for women who have:

• Unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Liver disease
• Breast cancer
• Blood clots

What Are the Disadvantages of Using Depo-Provera?

There are some disadvantages to using Depo-Provera, it can cause unwanted side effects, it does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases, it can cause irregular menstrual periods, if you want to become pregnant, you need to stop taking it Depo-Provera several months ahead of time, and the final disadvantage is you need to do regular doctor visits might be required.

Feel free to contact one of our offices to talk to one of our doctors today to determine if Depo-Provera is right for you.