What Is the Depo-Provera Shot (Birth Control Shot)?

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Depo-Provera, also known as the birth control shot, is a highly effective contraceptive method administered via injection. It has been widely used in the United States for over a decade and is known for its convenience and long-lasting effects.

How It Works

Depo-Provera contains medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. This hormone works by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.

Administration

The traditional Depo-Provera shot is given intramuscularly at a dose of 150 mg/mL once every three months. Recently, a new lower-dose formulation (104 mg/0.65 mL) has been developed for subcutaneous injection, which may increase convenience and ease of administration1.

Efficacy

Both the intramuscular and subcutaneous formulations of Depo-Provera are highly effective in preventing pregnancy. The lower-dose subcutaneous formulation has been shown to suppress ovulation for more than 13 weeks, regardless of body mass index or race1. In clinical trials, no ovulations were observed for up to 7 months after a single injection of 150 or 300 mg of Depo-Provera2.

Return to Ovulation

One of the key considerations for users of Depo-Provera is the time it takes for ovulation to return after discontinuing the shot. The median time for return to ovulation with the lower-dose formulation is approximately 30 weeks, with a 97.4% cumulative rate of return to ovulation at 12 months1.

Conclusion

Depo-Provera is a reliable and convenient contraceptive option for many women. With both intramuscular and subcutaneous formulations available, it offers flexibility in administration while maintaining high efficacy in preventing pregnancy. The return to ovulation after discontinuation is generally within a year, making it a viable option for those seeking long-term but reversible contraception.

Disclaimer

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