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Womens Health > Birth Control Forum > Use of Depo Provera and its side effects
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Q: Use of Depo Provera and its side effects
asked by: DoctorQuestion on June 5th, 2009
I started the depo shot may 15 and my menustration normally comes onm the third of every month and its the fourth and i havent seen it yet is it possible that im pregnant?


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Dr. Goce Aleksovski , MD
replied on June 8th, 2009
Birth Control Answer A6748


Depo provera (generic name: medroxyprogesterone) is a contraceptive injection that contains synthetic progesterone and no estrogen. The progesterone reduces the production of certain hormones from the pituitary gland, which are needed for proper egg maturation. Without proper egg maturation, no ovulation and no conception can occur.


There are side effects of Depo Provera. A missing period is one of them. With longer use the chances for missing your period are increased. Other side effects from using Depo Provera include: irregular or heavy bleeding, weight gain, headaches, nervousness, bloating, mood changes, and breast tenderness. Different women might experience hot flashes, acne, and hair loss.


According to the data you provided there is a big possibility that the missing period is a side effect from taking Depo Provera. However, you should visit your gynecologist to make sure that you are not pregnant because Depo Provera should not be given in women with known or at least suspected pregnancy. Your gynecologist would make a physical examination, hormonal laboratory tests, and an ultrasound scan to determine whether you are pregnant.




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