Conceived on Depo—Worried
Question
I have been taking Depo-Provera for about one year. I was due for my next shot in a couple of weeks but I have found out that I am about seven weeks pregnant while on the shots. I did not miss any shots. Should I have any concerns about the health of my baby and the pregnancy because of Depo?
Angelique
Answer
Last Updated: December 29, 2014
Dear Angelique,
There are some risks with medroxyprogesterone, the synthetic progestin in Depo Provera. According to the UpToDate data base, there is an increased risk of minor birth defects in children whose mothers take progestins during the first four months of pregnancy. Low birth weight can occur in babies from unexpected pregnancies which occurred 1-2 months following injection of Depo Provera. Ectopic (tubal) pregnancies have been reported with use of Depo Provera.
I think the main thing is to get early prenatal care to make sure you and your baby are doing well. The odds are that your baby is fine and will be fine. Minor birth defects can be corrected after birth, if they occur.
Consider using one of the modern methods of natural family planning after you deliver. Take a class during the pregnancy so that you will be ready after you deliver. NFP is highly effective and poses none of the risks that devices and chemicals carry.
Dr. George Delgado
There are some risks with medroxyprogesterone, the synthetic progestin in Depo Provera. According to the UpToDate data base, there is an increased risk of minor birth defects in children whose mothers take progestins during the first four months of pregnancy. Low birth weight can occur in babies from unexpected pregnancies which occurred 1-2 months following injection of Depo Provera. Ectopic (tubal) pregnancies have been reported with use of Depo Provera.
I think the main thing is to get early prenatal care to make sure you and your baby are doing well. The odds are that your baby is fine and will be fine. Minor birth defects can be corrected after birth, if they occur.
Consider using one of the modern methods of natural family planning after you deliver. Take a class during the pregnancy so that you will be ready after you deliver. NFP is highly effective and poses none of the risks that devices and chemicals carry.
Dr. George Delgado
Answered By:
George Delgado, M.D., F.A.A.F.P.
President and Founder of Steno Institute and Medical Director of Culture of Life Family Services (COLFS), San Diego, is a Professional Member / Supporter of CANFP. Board certified in both family medicine and hospice and palliative medicine, Dr. Delgado received his medical degree from the University of California, Davis, and completed his residency at Santa Monica Hospital/UCLA. Dr. Delgado is a Natural Family Planning Medical Consultant, trained in NaProTechnology.
