DEPO-PROVERA
STUDENT INFORMATION SHEET

What is DEPO-PROVERA?

DEPO-PROVERA is a hormone injection given every three months. This form of contraception provides a continuous release of progesterone (medroxyprogesterone acetate) which prevents ovulation. It also thickens the cervical mucus (making it difficult for sperm to penetrate) and causes the uterine lining to be thinner (making implantation of a fertilized egg unlikely).

How effective is it?
DEPO-PROVERA is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

When is the shot given?
DEPO-PROVERA is given by injection within the first five days of a woman’s menstrual cycle, or within five days of delivery if she is not breastfeeding. If given in this way, DEPO-PROVERA will be effective within 24 hours. It is then given every 12 weeks as long as continued contraception is desired, whether or not a woman continues to menstruate.

Where is the shot given?
DEPO-PROVERA is given in the muscle of the arm (deltoid) or buttocks.

Who should not receive the shot?
DEPO-PROVERA is not recommended for women who are pregnant or suspected of being pregnant. It is also not recommended for women who have a history of inflammation of the veins and/or blood clots, stroke, abnormal vaginal bleeding that has not been diagnosed, known or suspected malignancy of the breast or reproductive organ, liver disease or dysfunction, or known sensitivity to DEPO-PROVERA.

What are possible side-effects?
The most common side effect with DEPO-PROVERA is frequent, irregular bleeding or spotting. Some women miss their periods altogether. This is normal but if your pattern of bleeding concerns you, you can return to Health Services to discuss it. Another side effect is possible weight gain. Good nutrition and exercise will help you maintain your best weight. Occasionally some women complain of headaches or depression. DEPO-PROVERA may increase your risk of developing osteoporosis. You may need to increase your intake of calcium and Vitamin D.
You will need to have a medical history update and gynecologic exam at least once a year while using DEPO-PROVERA to make sure this method is suitable for you. Aminoglutethimide (Cytadren) diminishes the effectiveness of DEPO-PROVERA and it is advised that you use additional contraception if you are on this medication.

What are the advantages of the shot?
DEPO-PROVERA is safe, effective, long-term, reversible method of birth control. It is convenient. It is does not contain estrogen, which may be problematic for some women. It is a good method for women who would have difficulty remembering to take a daily pill.

Will the shot impact my ability to get pregnant in the future?
Your future fertility will ultimately be unchanged by DEPO-PROVERA. It may take, however, between 3 and 18 months after your last injection for your periods to return to normal and you can become pregnant. DEPO-PROVERA is not recommended for use if you intend to become pregnant in the next one to two years.

When should I contact Health Services?

Call Health Services immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:
* Unusual pain or swelling in the arms or legs
* Sharp chest pain or shortness of breath
* Severe abdominal pain
* Severe headaches
* Sudden change in vision
* Fainting or dizziness
* Heavy, prolonged vaginal bleeding

Does the shot protect me against sexually transmitted infections?
DEPO-PROVERA does not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases including HIV. Health Services recommends the use of latex condoms in combination with DEPO-PROVERA to protect yourself from STDs.

SCHS
9/29/02