How long can I use depo-subQ provera 104?
You should discuss the risks and benefits of this method of birth control with your health care provider. You should use depo-subQ provera 104 long term (for example, for more than 2 years) only if other methods of birth control are not right for you. If you're using or plan to use depo-subQ provera 104, discuss your bone health with your health care provider.

How does depo-subQ provera 104 protect me against getting pregnant?
Here's how it works. When you use depo-subQ provera 104, you don't ovulate. That means depo-subQ provera 104 stops the release of eggs from your ovaries. That way, there's no egg for sperm to fertilize. depo-subQ provera 104 is highly effective. And as long as you get a dose every 12 to 14 weeks, you are protected from unintended pregnancy.

What is the shot like?
depo-subQ provera 104 can be administered in either your thigh or abdomen—whichever you prefer. It is not injected into muscle but is given subcutaneously (under the skin) with a very fine needle. You may find that the skin around the injection site becomes dimpled, or lumpy. In clinical trials, about 6% of patients experienced skin reactions. There may even be mild pain.

Will I gain weight?
Weight changes often occur with hormonal birth control such as depo-subQ provera 104. It's not the same for every woman. In 3 clinical trials, the average weight gain was 3.5 pounds during the first year.

Consider trying various kinds of healthy exercise that can help keep you fit and trim when you begin taking depo-subQ provera 104. Yoga, jogging, and swimming are some examples. And eating more healthful foods, including fruits and vegetables, will help. For more ideas on healthy diet and exercise, visit PfizerForWomen.com. Talk to your health care provider about a diet and exercise plan that may be right for you.

Can I get pregnant after using depo-subQ provera 104?
If you decide to become pregnant, the first step is to stop taking depo-subQ provera 104.

Stop using depo-subQ provera 104 1 year before you plan to become pregnant.

The ability to get pregnant after using depo-subQ provera 104 has nothing to do with how many shots you've had. Getting pregnant takes more time for some women than it does for others.

Can I use depo-subQ provera 104 after having a baby?
Yes, depo-subQ provera 104 is safe for nursing mothers when used as directed in product labeling. Talk to your health care provider about what's best for you.

Is there someone I can talk to about depo-subQ provera 104?
Your health care provider is the first person to talk to. But if he or she is not available, simply call 1-866-554-depo (3316) to talk with a registered nurse about your questions—in English or in Spanish. The patient support telephone line is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call any time you want to discuss your questions.

Do I need a dosage adjustment if I'm overweight?
No, there is no dosage adjustment needed for heavier or lighter body weight. depo-subQ provera 104 offers pregnancy protection whatever your weight.

I cannot take estrogen. Is depo-subQ provera 104 right for me?
depo-subQ provera 104 contains no estrogen and is a good alternative for women who cannot take estrogen. It contains a form of progestin, the hormone involved in starting your period. depo-subQ provera 104 stops ovulation, and it causes the lining of the uterus to thin out.

Am I protected against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) if I am on depo-subQ provera 104?
No! depo-subQ provera 104, like other hormonal birth control methods (such as the Pill or the Patch), does not protect you from HIV/AIDS or other STDs. Women using any hormonal birth control should get clear information on how to protect themselves from STDs.

What can I do to reduce my chances of getting an STD?
Speak with your health care provider if you have concerns about getting an STD. He or she can tell you about the care you should take to reduce the risk. This care includes using a latex condom the right way each time you have sex. Remember, depo-subQ provera 104 is a highly effective method for preventing unintended pregnancy, but like other hormonal birth control methods (such as the Pill or the Patch), it will not protect you from HIV/AIDS or other STDs.

What should I do if I think I have an STD?
Call your health care provider as soon as possible if you think that you may have an STD, or if you've had sex with someone you think may have an STD. Your health care provider will ask you questions about your health in general and about any symptoms or problems you may be having. Be sure to tell your health care provider about any health concerns you have.

Your health care provider will probably do a pelvic exam and do some lab tests to find out if you have an STD. If you do have an STD, your health care provider will talk with you about what treatment is best for you.

Important Safety Information

Use of depo-subQ provera 104 may cause you to lose calcium stored in your bones. The longer you use depo-subQ provera 104, the more calcium you are likely to lose. The calcium may not return completely once you stop using depo-subQ provera 104. Loss of calcium may cause weak bones that could increase the risk that your bones might break, especially after menopause. It is not known whether your risk of developing osteoporosis may be greater if you are a teenager when you start to use depo-subQ provera 104. You should only use depo-subQ provera 104 long term (for example, more than 2 years) if other methods of birth control are not right for you.

depo-subQ provera 104 doesn't protect you from HIV/AIDS or other sexually transmitted diseases.

You shouldn't use depo-subQ provera 104 if you are or could be pregnant or if you have had any unexplained periods. You should not use it if you have a history of breast cancer, serious blood clots in your legs, lungs, heart, or head, or liver disease.

Some women using depo-subQ provera 104 have side effects. The most common are irregular periods or spotting. Many women stop having periods altogether after a few months. You may gain weight when using depo-subQ provera 104. You may also experience skin reactions and headache.

There is a slight to no increased risk of breast cancer.

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