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Side Effects of the Depo-Provera Shot

by Allison Boelcke

Overview

Depo-Provera is an injection of the female hormone progestin used to prevent pregnancy. The progestin causes the uterus to stop ovulating, producing eggs. If no eggs are present, they cannot be fertilized by sperm and result in pregnancy. The Depo-Provera shot is administered just once every 12 weeks, and the large dose of the hormone can result in a range of side effects.
Irregular Bleeding

According to the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, irregular vaginal bleeding is one of the most common side effects of the Depo-Provera shot. A woman may have vaginal bleeding between menstrual periods or experience much heavier periods than normal. The irregular bleeding occurs most often during the first 6 to 12 months of use, but will usually subside as a woman's body becomes accustomed to the progestin levels in the injection.

Bone Thinning

The Depo-Provera shot has been found to affect bone density in some women, especially after extended use. The University of Illinois reports that the shot can cause calcium reduction and thinning of the bones. The bone density loss is temporary and will typically return to normal once a woman discontinues the shot. According to the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, women who are on Depo-Provera are advised to take extra precautions to protect their bones by exercising and taking calcium and vitamin D supplements.
Weight

Some women on Depo-Provera may experience changes in appetite that contribute to weight gain. The University of Illinois reports that the most common weight gain is between three and five pounds during the first year of being on Depo-Provera and increases to eight pounds after two years. Women who are susceptible to weight gain while on the shot are recommended to maintain a balanced diet and regular physical activity to keep weight under control.
Sex Drive

According to the Planned Parenthood Federation of America, one of the possible side effects of the Depo-Provera shot is decreased sex drive. Some women on the shot may notice a physical lack of desire for intercourse. The decreased sex drive can make physical arousal more difficult and reduce a woman's ability to lubricate before or during intercourse. The lack of natural lubrication can make intercourse more difficult or painful, so women on the shot are recommended to use personal-lubricant products.
Depression

Depression is a less common, yet serious, side effect of the Depo-Provera shot. The University of Illinois states that the shot's effective ingredients can produce irritability or depression. It may also trigger pre-existing depression, even if it has been treated in the past. Women who are on antidepressant medications typically are advised to use the shot only with careful doctor supervision. The shot can potentially interact with the antidepressant medications and cause them not to work properly.