Depo-provera
Find out more about Depo-Provera and bone health.
How does Depo-Provera affect bone health?
Depo-Provera is a long-acting contraceptive injection. It contains a hormone called medroxyprogesterone acetate. You have it as an injection into a muscle or under the skin.
Studies have shown that bone strength decreases by a small amount in people using Depo-Provera. This decrease is greater in people who use it for longer. It is also likely to be greater in younger women than older women.
Women taking Depo-Provera may have a higher chance of breaking a bone. But overall, this risk is low. Once you stop having injections, bone strength improves and returns close to its earlier level. If you already have osteoporosis, your healthcare professional may advise you not to use Depo-Provera. A different contraceptive may be more suitable for you.
We need more research to know whether long-term use of Depo-Provera in younger women increases the chance of fractures later in life.
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