Birth Control/Depo Provera

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Expert: Bob Kambic - 6/18/2007


Question
I am almost due for my second depo provera injection. I have had non stop spotting for about 7 weeks now and the doctor told me it is just my body getting used to the hormones. When can I change to a different form of birth control? I still have 2 1/2 weeks till I have to get the shot. Can I start an oral contraceptive now? Will it help the bleeding stop?

Answer
It's best to wait until the full time of the shot wears off to start another hormonal contraceptive. I suggest that if you are concerned about bleeding on the shot, not to take another shot and give your body time to get back to normal. This could take sometime, but the spotting should stop. After that you can decide on a pill.

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Bob Kambic

Expertise

Natural Family Planning, Periodic Abstinence, Rhythm, Catholic Church Method of Family Planning, Withdrawal, Condoms, Abstinence, Breast Feeding.

Experience

On the faculty of Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health for 22 years.

Publications
AJOBGYN, AJPH, Fertility and Sterility, Advances in Contraception, International Family Planning Perspectives, America, etc.

Education/Credentials
Duquesne University BA, University of Pittsburgh MSH, Johns Hopkins all but dissertation for PhD (ABD). Over 50 peer review articles on these topics, advisor to Planned Parenthood and to Vatican.

Past/Present Clients
Planned Parenthood, Family Planning Clinics, Womens' Reproductive Health Clinics, The Vatican, US Conference of Catholic Bishops, WHO, USAID, programs in Asia, Africa, Europe, South America, and the USA.

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