Medroxyprogesterone: what it does and what to watch for

One shot of medroxyprogesterone (the Depo-Provera injection) can prevent pregnancy for about three months. That’s useful, but it also means a single decision can affect your hormones for weeks. This page gives clear, practical facts about medroxyprogesterone (MPA), how people use it, common side effects, and straight-forward safety tips.

Quick facts and how it works

Medroxyprogesterone is a synthetic progestin. You’ll see it in two main forms: an injection (often called Depo-Provera) and oral tablets (brand name Provera or generics). For contraception, the shot is usually 150 mg given into a muscle every 12–13 weeks. Orally, doctors use it for irregular bleeding, endometrial protection during estrogen therapy, or short-term management of specific gynecologic issues.

It prevents pregnancy by stopping ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and changing the uterine lining so an egg can’t implant easily. For non-contraceptive uses, the dose and schedule can vary, so follow your prescriber’s instructions.

Practical safety tips and what to expect

Expect changes in your bleeding pattern. Spotting, irregular bleeding, or no periods at all are common with both the shot and oral forms. If bleeding is heavy or lasts more than a few weeks, call your clinician.

Weight and mood shifts are reported fairly often. Some people gain a few pounds or notice mood swings. If mood changes feel severe or you have thoughts of harming yourself, seek help right away.

Bone density can decrease with long-term use of the Depo shot. If you plan to use it for more than two years, talk with your doctor about bone health—calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise, and periodic monitoring may be advised.

Thinking about fertility later? If you stop the Depo shot, it can take several months (sometimes 6–12) to get pregnant again. Oral medroxyprogesterone tends to wear off faster, so fertility usually returns quicker.

Check for medical reasons to avoid it: if you have active liver disease, certain unexplained vaginal bleeding, or a history of some types of blood clots or stroke, your provider may recommend another option. Always tell your prescriber about other meds you take—some drugs can change how hormones work.

Want simple next steps? If you’re considering medroxyprogesterone, write down your medical history, current meds, and any plans for future pregnancy. Bring that to your appointment and ask about alternatives if long-term bone or mood concerns matter to you. If you already use MPA and notice worrying symptoms—heavy bleeding, severe mood shifts, chest pain, or leg swelling—get medical attention promptly.

Need links to deeper reads or related posts? Browse trusted sites or talk to a clinician who knows your history. This page is a quick, practical snapshot to help you ask the right questions and make safer choices about medroxyprogesterone.