What is contraceptive injection?
As clear from the name, these contraceptives are injected into the body and keep releasing the pregnancy-hindering hormone in low doses. Progesterone-only injectable contraceptives (POIC) is a long-acting and reversible method of contraception.
Is it available in India?
In India, Depo-Provera is a well-known brand name for a contraceptive injection that contains the hormone progestin. Depot Provera or Depot MedroxyProgesterone Acetate or DMPA (generic name) is a long-acting injectable contraceptive. The contraceptive injection (or the DMPA) is also commonly known as Antara in India. One dose lasts for three months.
'Injectables have various side effects and are not preferred for that reason,' says Dr Dolly Bagai, who is a general physician based in Delhi with extensive practice in obstetrics and gynaecology.
How long does it work?
It is given as an injection every three months.
How does it work?
The medroxyprogesterone acetate present in it suppresses ovulation, keeping your ovaries from releasing an egg. It also thickens cervical mucus to keep sperm from reaching the egg. It works well if you don't want to take a birth control pill every day but may have some side effects.
Does it have any side effects?
A common side effect of this method is irregular menstrual bleeding and missing menstrual periods entirely (amenorrhea), as noted in national family planning guidelines by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare India.
Other side effects may include weight gain, headache, dizziness, and a decrease in bone mineral density. Because of concerns about bone loss with long-term use, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises caution if used for more than two years, although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that the benefits may outweigh the risks for many users with appropriate counselling.
How soon can the fertility return if I want to conceive?
It takes about 9-10 months for fertility to return after stopping this drug.
Pros of Depo-Provera
- Reliable and effective
- Stress free sex for a long time
- No maintenance
- Cost effective
Cons of Depo-Provera
- Regular doctor visits
- Fertility does not return immediately if you want to conceive
- Can cause irregular menstrual periods or other side effects.
- It does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
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