All methods of hormonal birth control have side effects. With
depo-subQ provera 104, you may have several kinds of changes or side effects.
1. Changes in your bones
2. Changes to your period
3. Changes in your weight
4. Skin reactions
5. Other risks
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Bone changes
depo-subQ provera 104 can change bone mineral density (BMD). BMD is a measure of how much calcium is stored in your bones. Over time, there can be loss of calcium. Calcium starts to return when you stop taking depo-subQ provera 104.
If you plan to use depo-subQ provera 104 for longer than 2 years, you must discuss the risks and benefits with your health care provider
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Osteoporosis risk factors
These are some risk factors for osteoporosis, which can also reduce the amount of calcium in your bones:
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bone disease
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too much alcohol or smoking
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anorexia
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a family history of osteoporosis
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use of drugs such as steroids
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If you have any of the osteoporosis risk factors listed above, be sure to discuss them with your health care provider.
A healthy lifestyle can help maintain bone health. A diet containing lots of vegetables, plus calcium supplements and vitamin D, can also be helpful. Regular weight-bearing exercise, such as running, hiking, and walking, can also help keep your bones in good shape. Talk to your health care provider about a diet and exercise plan that may be right for you.
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Changes to your period
Women using depo-subQ provera 104 may have side effects, such as irregular spotting or bleeding or being out of rhythm with their regular cycle. Spotting or bleeding may be prolonged and heavy at times. As your body gets used to depo-subQ provera 104, irregular spotting or bleeding may lessen and, in time, stop. However, if you have unusually heavy bleeding call your health care provider.
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As you keep on with your scheduled shots of
depo-subQ provera 104, spotting or bleeding may stop. This is called "amenorrhea"
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In clinical trials, over a third of the women had stopped having periods (this is called "amenorrhea") by month 6. By month 12, over half of the women had stopped
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Not having a period may take some getting used to, but don't worry about being pregnant. If you take your shots on schedule, you'll be protected against pregnancy
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Weight changes
Weight changes can occur with any hormonal method of birth control, including depo-subQ provera 104. In clinical trials, the average weight gain was 3.5 pounds during the first year. A healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and eating the right foods can help keep weight gain to a minimum. Talk to your health care provider about a diet and exercise plan that may be right for you.
Learn more about living a healthy lifestyle
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Skin reactions
In clinical studies, about 6% of women experienced skin reactions in the area where they got their shot. The skin around the injection may get dimpled, or feel lumpy. There may also be mild pain. If your skin feels hot, or looks bruised, call your health care provider.
Other Risks
Slight to no increased risk of breast cancer
Decreased risk of endometrial cancer
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