Experience with medroxyprogesterone acetate (Depo-Provera) as an injectable contraceptive

Depo-Provera injections appear to be a safe and effective alternative for women who cannot tolerate the estrogenic side effects associated with oral contraceptives or the pain and bleeding associated with IUDs. However, women considering the method should be fully aware of the possible risks: (a) inability to withdraw the drug promptly in the event of a serious reaction, (b) disruption of menstrual patterns, and (c) delayed return of fertility after discontinuing therapy. Some women may consider the required trip to the doctor every 3 months an additional disadvantage. For women in developing countries where anemia and nutritional problems are prevalent, Depo-Provera has additional advantages in relation to IUDs and OCs: it causes less bleeding than IUDs or OCs and, unlike oral contraceptives, it does not suppress vitamin levels (4-8). Since it requires a trip to the doctor every 3 months, it also provides a better opportunity for medical supervision and care. For postpartum women who which to breastfeed their babies, Depo-Provera has the additional advantage of causing no adverse effect on lactation (1, 2, 13, 14, 16, 18, 19, 25, 32, 36).