Medroxyprogesterone (MPA): what it is and why people use it

If you’ve been prescribed medroxyprogesterone, you probably want clear, practical info — not a textbook. Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is a synthetic progestin. Doctors use it for birth control, to treat abnormal uterine bleeding, help with menopause hormone therapy, and sometimes for endometriosis. It comes as a pill and as an injection; each form works a bit differently and has different trade-offs.

Common uses and how it works

MPA acts like the natural hormone progesterone. For contraception, the injection (brand name Depo‑Provera or Depo‑subQ Provera 104) prevents ovulation and thickens cervical mucus so sperm can’t reach the egg. As a pill (Provera), it’s used to control heavy or irregular bleeding and to protect the uterus when estrogen is given during menopause treatment. For endometriosis, higher daily oral doses can reduce pain by thinning the lining of the uterus and suppressing some hormone-driven tissue growth.

Doses, side effects, and practical safety tips

Typical doses: for contraception the IM injection is 150 mg every 12–13 weeks; the subcutaneous option is 104 mg every 12–13 weeks. Oral doses vary by use — common ranges are 2.5–10 mg daily for hormone therapy and 10–20 mg daily for bleeding control, but your doctor will set the exact dose.

Side effects you’ll hear about most: changes in menstrual bleeding (spotting or no periods), weight gain, mood swings, headaches, decreased libido, and injection‑site soreness. A key long‑term concern with repeated injections is a drop in bone mineral density; doctors usually limit long‑term use or check bone health if injections continue for years. Fertility usually returns after stopping, but with injections it often takes several months — average return is around 6–10 months, sometimes longer.

Drug interactions matter: strong liver enzyme inducers (like rifampin, some seizure meds, or St. John’s wort) can lower effectiveness. If you’re on those, tell your provider — you might need extra contraception or a different method. Don’t use MPA if you’re pregnant. If you’re breastfeeding, discuss timing with your doctor; many providers consider it acceptable but will weigh benefits and risks.

Practical tips: set calendar reminders for injection appointments, report heavy bleeding or severe mood changes, and ask about bone density screening if you’ll use injections for more than two years. If you miss an injection, follow your clinic’s guidance — pregnancy risk rises as the injection wears off.

Questions for your prescriber: why this form of MPA for me, how long should I use it, what signs should make me call, and are there safer alternatives given my health history? Clear answers will help you use medroxyprogesterone safely and confidently.