What is DMPA birth control?

The DMPA contraceptive injection is a commonly used reversible contraceptive method among women in the United States. Also known as the “shot,” the injection is commonly known by its brand-name Depo Provera (depot-medroxyprogesterone acetate or DMPA), although generic alternatives are now available.

When do you inject DMPA?

Timing: The first DMPA injection can be given within the first 7 days, including immediately after the abortion (U.S. MEC 1).

What are the side effects of DMPA?

Although DMPA is a safe, effective, long-acting method of hormonal contraception, this injectable has been linked with side effects such as weight gain, menstrual changes, headache, dizziness, acne, abdominal bloating, breast swelling, depression, reduced libido, and alopecia.

What are the side effects of the 3 month injection?

Other side effects included weight gain, headache, nervousness, abdominal pain or discomfort, dizziness, and asthenia. Physicians should administer the drug only to women found not to be pregnant, because fetal exposure may lead to low birth weight and other problems.

Does DMPA stop periods?

Though it is common for women using DMPA to stop having their periods for a long time, this is not harmful.

Does Depo make you fat?

Depo-Provera (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate , or DMPA) is an effective and relatively easy form of birth control. It does appear to cause weight gain for many women, though. 1 Weight gain is often cited as the reason women stop using the shots. DMPA can change body composition and increase fat mass.

Why do you have to wait 7 days after Depo shot?

If you get the birth control shot (also known as Depo-Provera) within the first 7 days after the start of your period, you’re protected from pregnancy immediately. Otherwise, you need to use some form of backup birth control — like a condom — whenever you have sex during the first week after getting the shot.

Is DMPA effective immediately?

How soon does Depo-Provera® work? You’re immediately protected after receiving the first Depo-Provera® shot if you get it during your menstrual period. If it’s given to you at another time during your cycle, you may need to wait a week to 10 days before having intercourse without a condom to prevent pregnancy.

What happens when you stop Depo?

A Google search shows women experiencing distressing effects after stopping Depo Provera and describing it on social media. It is hard to estimate the size of the problem. Symptoms described include breast pain, weight gain, hot flashes, nausea, headache, bloating, bone pain and sleep problems.

Does the shot cause weight gain?

While it’s true that the birth control shot (AKA Depo-Provera) can change your appetite while you use it, not everyone who gets the shot will gain weight. If you’re already using the shot and you want to maintain your current weight or lose weight, diet and exercise may help.

Can I lose weight while on Depo shot?

Is it possible to lose weight while taking the shot? While it’s true that the birth control shot (AKA Depo-Provera) can change your appetite while you use it, not everyone who gets the shot will gain weight.