Nearly two-thirds of women ages of 15-49 use birth control. Used properly, birth control gives you the ability to choose when and if you get pregnant, and it’s a key element of your reproductive health care.
There are many options when it comes to birth control. From daily pills to long-acting options like intrauterine devices, each has its benefits. Board-certified OB/GYN A. Michael Coppa, MD, and our team are here to help you find the best fit for your needs.
One of the most popular birth control methods we offer is Depo-Provera®, also known as the birth control shot. It’s FDA-approved, convenient, and effective, and it’s time to find out if Depo-Provera is right for you.
Depo-Provera injections are hormonal birth control that use progestin to prevent unintended pregnancy. When you get the shot, progestin prevents your ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation). If you don’t ovulate, you can’t get pregnant.
Using Depo-Provera for birth control requires just one injection every three months. If you get your shots as scheduled, it’s up to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. If you miss a scheduled shot, use other methods of birth control until you receive the next shot.
Taking a birth control pill every day at the same time doesn’t work for everyone. Maybe your schedule changes frequently, or maybe you’re forgetful. If you choose Depo-Provera, all you need to do is come into our office every three months for a shot.
Women who use Depo-Provera often notice changes in their menstrual cycles. You might notice a decrease in menstrual cramps and bleeding. Up to half of women don’t get their periods at all while using Depo-Provera.
With Dr. Coppa’s guidance, you can stop using Depo-Provera at any time if you decide you want to get pregnant. You may get pregnant as soon as three months after your last shot, but it’s normal for it to take up to 10 months to get pregnant after you stop using birth control shots.
Depo-Provera is a flexible, convenient option for women who want effective birth control without the hassle of taking a pill or using barrier methods. Since it only contains progestin, it’s a good choice for women who can’t or don’t want to use hormonal birth control with estrogen.
Depo-Provera is a safe contraceptive, but it might not be right for every woman. Dr. Coppa may not recommend the birth control shot if you have any of the following conditions:
Dr. Coppa offers comprehensive birth control consultations. He reviews your medical history, does a physical exam, and asks about your family planning goals before making a recommendation.
We’re here to answer your questions and help you find a birth control method that’s right for you. If you’re curious about the benefits of Depo-Provera, schedule a consultation with Dr. Coppa. Call us or use our online tool to request an appointment..
Our offices are conveniently located in Cranston, Providence, and Smithfield, Rhode Island.
