Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone) is a reversibleprescription birth control method.

Over the course of one year, you should receive four depo shots.

Side Effects

Your body may go through changesas it adjusts to the progestin in Depo-Provera.

Adult woman having injection during visit at female doctor’s office

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By 12 months, over half of depo users periods stopped.

With perfect use, Depo-Provera is 99.7% effective (97% with typical use).

Generally speaking, it takes about three months for your body to adjust to Depo-Provera.

Depo Provera shot

Dawn Stacey

This symptom is considered completely normal.

As your body adjusts to the progestin, these side effects should lessen and go away.

By now, you have probably been happy with the convenience of not having to think about birth control.

Woman receiving an injection in her arm

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During months four through six, it is still considered normal if you are experiencing sporadic bleeding.

Most patients who use Depo-Provera report that their irregular spotting tends to lessen with each shot.

Weight Gain

At this point, you may or may not notice changes to your weight.

Woman getting salad on her plate

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Weight gain is a common side effect.

Use this healthcare providers visit to discuss a possible exercise and diet plan with your healthcare provider.

This will ensure that your pregnancy protection continues.

Exercise During Depo Use

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Keep taking your calcium supplements if your healthcare provider had recommended their use.

Exercise

You should also be exercising.

Your routine should including weight-bearing exercises that will help to keep your bones strong.

Depo Provera Shot

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As long as you have been receiving your Depo-Provera injections on time, you have had continuous pregnancy protection.

You may also be experiencing the added benefit of not having your period anymore.

If your period has not completely stopped by the end of the first year, don’t fret.

depo provera

Dawn Stacey

With continued Depo-Provera use, it will most likely stop within the following months.

After using Depo-Provera for a year, you will most likely need to schedule your annual gynecological exam.

you could arrange to receive your fourth depo shot during this appointment.

Final Considerations

It is super important that you receive your Depo-Provera shot on time, every time.

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