“The Shot” Depo-Provera
What is Depo-Provera? Depo-Provera is the marketing name for the most widely-used injectable method of birth control in the world (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, or DMPA).3
What it is…
Depo-Provera is a long-acting, man-made hormone. It has been available in some parts of the world for 20 years or more and has been used by doctors specifically to abort children. That is why Depo-Provera was not approved in the U.S. until the mid-90’s.
Important warnings:
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Some common side-effects:
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Headaches
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Weight gain
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Mood swings
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Abdominal discomfort
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Dizziness
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Fatigue
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Not effective against sexually transmitted infections
Serious risks are rare, but include heavy bleeding, sterility, increased risk of cervical cancer, adrenal gland suppression, hair loss, depression, decreased sex drive, and risk of breast cancer.
Source:
Depo-Provera. 1997. American Life League
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