About medroxyprogesterone contraceptive injections

Medroxyprogesterone injections are used as contraception. The injection is long lasting and stops you from getting pregnant for at least 3 months after you have it.

Medroxyprogesterone (also known as medroxyprogesterone acetate) is a type of medicine called a progestogen. Progestogens are similar to a natural hormone made in the body called progesterone.

Medroxyprogesterone works in the same way as natural progesterone, but has stronger effects. The injection stops your body from releasing an egg each month and also makes it less likely that an egg would be fertilised or develop.

Medroxyprogesterone contraceptive injections are only available on prescription. You'll usually have them at a GP surgery, contraception clinic or sexual health clinic.

The most commonly used brand is called Depo-Provera. There is another brand called Sayana Press that you can be taught to give yourself.

Medroxyprogesterone also comes as tablets used to treat hormonal conditions including heavy periods, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hot flushes caused by treatment for prostate cancer.

It also comes mixed with another hormone called oestrogen as a type of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), for menopause symptoms.

High dose medroxyprogesterone tablets (100mg, 200mg and 400mg) are used to treat some types of cancer.