Q: We are trying to update our guidelines for DMPA injections. For an initial start, if a woman has her normal menstrual period, do we still need to do a pregnancy test before administering the Depo injection? Thank you! A: If a menstruating woman is...
Q I first took the Depo shot in September and again in December. I was supposed to go back to get the next injection in March, but I decided not to. So basically, I only took 2 Depo shots. I just turned 19 years old, but my boyfriend and I have decided that...
Q I received my Depo injection in November and started bleeding in mid December and am still bleeding now in January. It is heavy at times and light at others. Is it normal to have intercourse while bleeding lightly? My next shot is due next month. Should I...
Q A client received a partial Depo 150 mg IM due to operator error. We figure that she received about ½ -2/3 of the dose. The client uses it primarily to control her periods. We contracted the manufacturer. They recommended that she se a BUM for the full 13...
Q I have been using Depo-Provera for the last 7 years and I feel that it is time to come off of it. I have seen increased weight gain (about 5 pounds per year). How long will it take for me to lose the weight that I have gained after stopping the...
Q How often do allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis happen when women are provided Depo-Provera? A: Depo-Provera injections occasionally cause an allergic reaction. Anayphylaxis is extremely rare, but it may happen [Patient Package Insert]. As of...
Q: I’ve always been extremely paranoid about becoming pregnant, which is why I got the Implanon implant in the first place, but my irregular bleeding is worrying me. I got my implant in September 2013, and have had irregular bleeding ever since that...
Ask Dr. Z!
Board-certified as an OB/GYN with a fellowship in contraceptive research and education, I aim to help people make informed decisions about their health.
I’ve co-authored sixteen editions of Managing Contraception* with over one million copies in circulation. I’m here to answer your questions about birth control.