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| The Shot [Printer-Friendly Format]
Risks and side effects Menstrual effects Any one of the following may be experienced during the first year of use:
Most women initially bleed and spot randomly while using the shot. More than half of the women using the shot stop getting their period during the first year. Other period-related symptoms such as bloating and cramps also stop. Missed periods occur because there is very little buildup of the lining in the uterus while using the shot, and are not a sign of pregnancy. A few women may experience heavier than normal bleeding with the shot. If you experience heavy bleeding for more than 7 days, contact a clinician. Bone mineral changes Use of the shot has been associated with loss of bone mineral density. Most of this loss is reversible when the shot is discontinued. Because some studies have indicated possible risk of permanent bone density loss with long-term use, talk with a clinician before continuing the shot beyond two years. A diet rich in calcium and regular weight bearing exercise can help reduce the risk of bone mineral loss. For women who do not get adequate calcium (1200 to 1500 mg daily for women ages 13 to 24) in their diet, daily calcium and vitamin D supplements are recommended. Smoking decreases the levels of calcium stored in the bones, so women on the shot should not smoke. Other side effects The following side effects have been reported by some women but are less common:
Is there an increased risk of cancer? No increased risk of developing cancer of the breast, ovaries, uterus, cervix, or liver is associated with use of the shot. In fact, the shot may even decrease the risk of uterine cancer. Getting the shot The injection is given into a large muscle in either the arm or the buttock. Most women say the shot is not painful, but the injection site can remain sore for about a day. A newer version of the shot is injected under the skin on the abdomen or front of the thigh. Timeline The first injection is given only during the first five days of a normal menstrual period or within five days after childbirth. Given this way, the shot is effective immediately. Subsequent injections must be given within 11 to 13 weeks of the pervious shot. To be sure not to miss follow-up injections, try the following:
If 13 weeks pass between injections, there will be no protection against pregnancy and an alternate birth control method should be used. Before receiving the next injection, there must be no vaginal sex for ten days and a pregnancy test will be done at the clinic prior to the next shot. Stopping the shot The shot is reversible but the return of fertility can take 3 to 18 months; the average is about 10 months after the last shot. For anyone wishing to become pregnant in this year or the next, the shot may not be the best contraceptive option. The shot and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) The shot does not protect against HIV or other STIs. Use male or female condoms to protect against infection. Irregular or heavy bleeding, increased vaginal discharge, and abdominal cramps can be symptoms of a sexually transmitted infection. Schedule an appointment for testing if you are at risk for STIs and/or experience symptoms. [HU 414 : updated 02/07] top of page | story updated 5/27/08 | |  Plasma Donation/Apheresis (Red Cross) UHS Immunization and Health History Form UHS Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence Information | |||
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