Injectable Contraceptives

Question 1

What is the main injectable contraceptive?

Answer 1

Depo provera

Question 2

What does Depo Provera contain?

Answer 2

150mg of medroxyprogresterone acetate.

Question 3

How & how often is it given?

Answer 3

IM injection every 12 weeks.

Question 4

How does Depo Provera work?

Answer 4

1. Mainly it It inhibits ovulation
2. Also cervical mucus thickening and endometrial thinning.

Question 5

What are some adverse effects of depo provera?

Answer 5

• Irregular bleeding
• Weight gain
• May potentially increased risk of osteoporosis
• Not quickly reversible
• Delayed Return to Fertility - fertility may return after a varying time

Question 6

Can it be used in adolescents?

Answer 6

Should only be used in adolescents if no other method of contraception is suitable

Question 7

What is the other injectable contraceptive licensed in the UK, but rarely used?

How often is it given?

Answer 7

Noristerat

It is given every 8 weeks.

Question 8

Depo Provera should ideally be given every 12 weeks.

But what if a lady comes in at 13 weeks and asks about risk of pregnancy because she missed her appointment to have her injection?

Answer 8

Depo Provera can be delayed by 2 weeks (14 weeks after last dose) and still provide protection.

Question 9

What is a side effect of injectable contraceptives that isn’t a side effect of other contraceptives?

Answer 9

It can increase the chance of getting osteoporosis.