The Depo Shot, also called medroxyprogesterone acetate or DMPA, is an effective form of birth control that is long-lasting and easy to use. It prevents pregnancy by stopping the ovaries from releasing eggs and changing the lining of the uterus to make it harder for sperm to reach the egg. The injections also suppress the appetite, which can help you lose weight. However, this can also cause a number of side effects like stomach cramps and oily stools.
It doesn't contain estrogen, so it's often used if you don't want to take a daily pill or have to worry about it not being effective if you forget to use it before sex. It also makes your period lighter and less painful. The downside is that it doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
When you use the depo shot, there is a small risk of getting pregnant, even with proper use. It's important to get the shots on time, avoid high-fat foods and avoid certain medications or supplements such as St. John's wort, grapefruit or vitamin E because they may interfere with the contraceptive effectiveness.
You can get the Depo shot in a doctor's office or you can give yourself a shot at home with an at-home kit. If you inject the medication at home, it's important to follow all preparation and safety instructions. Also, check the medication visually for particles or discoloration before each injection. Talk to your doctor about how much alcohol is safe to drink while on the shot and for instructions on how to store and dispose of sharp tools at home.