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Is Depo-Provera safe?
The contraceptive injection Depo-Provera is an effective form of contraception, but what are the side effects? Dr Shazia Maqzood has the answers
I've just recently had a baby after coming off the contraceptive injection Depo-Provera. I was on it for about four years before I stopped to get pregnant.
I'd really like to go back on it as it seemed to work very well with my lifestyle and I was worried that I'd keep forgetting to take my pill. I often had thrush when on the pill too.
Recently, there seems to be lots of information saying you shouldn't use Depo for more than two years. I'd really like to go back on it, but this worries me a little as they say it can affect bone density.
I'm 30 years old, don't drink or smoke and do some exercise so consider myself fairly healthy. Should I be worried about potentially going back on Depo? Are there any other things I should consider?
Thank you for your question, and congratulations on the new arrival.
Although it is an excellent method which suits many women, the main concern about Depo-Provera is that it can cause reversible bone loss by inducing a temporary menopause-like effect.
You have not mentioned whether you had any bleeding whilst on Depo-Provera, because this can make a difference. If someone has a family history or personal history of bone disease (Osteoporosis) and when using Depo-Provera has no periods at all, then I would suggest that they are at risk of further bone loss.
Any further bone loss would essentially stop if Depo-Provera was stopped. In such a case I would recommend that the use of Depo-Provera stop and a blood hormone test be undertaken to determine Estradiol levels (Estradiol is our natural bone protection hormone).
If you were having intermittent spotting or bleeding when you previously used Depo-Provera, you could begin to use it again, but I would recommend that you discuss your concerns and medical history and alternative contraceptive options with your GP or family planning clinic first.
For more information out Depo-Provera and possible side effects you could look at www.depoprovera.com
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