The Depo shot, also known as medroxyprogesterone acetate, is a hormonal birth control injection that delivers progestin to prevent pregnancy. It offers a convenient and effective contraceptive option.
Administration Schedule
The Depo shot is administered by a healthcare professional every 13 weeks. This consistent schedule is important for maintaining its effectiveness. The injection is typically given into a muscle, such as the gluteal or deltoid muscle.
Adhering to this timeline is important because protection diminishes if delayed beyond 13 weeks. Healthcare providers often schedule follow-up appointments to help individuals stay on track. Regular administration ensures continuous hormonal coverage.
What If You Miss a Dose?
Missing a scheduled Depo shot dose can reduce its effectiveness. If an injection is not given within 13 weeks, a pregnancy test is recommended before the next injection. The time elapsed influences the necessary steps.
If you are less than two weeks late, you can receive the shot immediately without additional contraception. If more than two weeks have passed, a healthcare provider will require a pregnancy test before administering the next dose. Using a backup method, such as condoms, for at least seven days after the delayed injection is recommended. Contacting a healthcare provider promptly after a missed dose is important.
How the Depo Shot Works
The Depo shot prevents pregnancy through the action of progestin, a synthetic hormone. This hormone stops the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation). Without an egg for fertilization, pregnancy cannot occur.
Progestin also thickens cervical mucus, creating a barrier that makes it difficult for sperm to reach an egg. It thins the lining of the uterus, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg, preventing implantation and pregnancy.
Key Considerations and Side Effects
Individuals using the Depo shot may experience side effects. Alterations in menstrual bleeding patterns are common, ranging from irregular periods, heavier or lighter bleeding, to the cessation of periods altogether. Approximately 55% of users may stop having periods after a year of use.
Other common side effects include weight changes, headaches, and dizziness. Some individuals may also experience temporary bone density loss, particularly with long-term use. While bone density can recover after discontinuing the shot, healthcare providers recommend not using it for longer than two years unless other birth control methods are unsuitable. Discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider.