Health Benefits of DMPA
- Not enough women take advantage of the overall health benefits of contraception, and a new article published in Obstetrics and Gynecology has highlighted the fact that many studies have looked at the safety and benefits on health of users of DepoProvera who have used the method for over a decade.
- DepoProvera (DMPA), and hormonal contraception in general, offer a range of health benefits that extend far beyond pregnancy prevention. By addressing concerns, understanding the impact of stress, and adopting a holistic approach to well-being, women can make informed choices that align with their individual health goals. Regular communication with healthcare providers and a proactive stance toward overall health are key elements in maximizing the benefits of contraception like DMPA.
- When you take hormonal oral contraceptive pills you get the health benefits of fewer ovarian cysts, less menstrual cramps, fewer days of bleeding, and less endometriosis. DMPA provides many of those same benefits.
- DepoProvera injectable contraception, that is a 4 times a year injection, can provide health benefits beyond preventing pregnancy as well. So we want to discuss those in the context of what contraception is best for you.
- Concerns we speak to women about their DepoProvera use are with regard to weight, mood, and sexual function. Generally speaking most women do very well, and do not gain weight, have depressed mood, or unfavorable changes in sexual function. All contraception has some risk in these categories.
- Studies that control for external stress in a woman’s life generally will find that it’s the stress that is the issue, not the contraceptive method.
- DMPA can also be helpful for perimenopause transition.
- In some studies (not in all of them!) DepoProvera users had more complaints of weight gain, BMI, and fat mass than non-users. However, in studies the average weight of the group goes up in all groups! So the solution to weight management lies in nutrition and exercise, not in what you use for contraception! When looking at central obesity and body fat measurement in some studies there was more central fat gain in the women on DepoProvera. So we do like to encourage some contraceptive clients to get Body Composition Testing to accurately track body changes.
