Combined Pill vs. Depo-Provera: Which Contraceptive is Best?

Question
Hi,
   At the moment I take the combined contraceptive pill called Ovranette. I have however been doing some research into the contraceptive injection Depo-provera and I was wondering if you could give me any help on which one you think is the best. From doing the research the depo-provera injection seems to be very effective. Is it more effective than the pill? Basically I just want to use the most effective form of contraception so any help in this area would be gratefuly received. Kind regards,
     Gemma.

Answer
Hi Gemma,

You didn't tell me your age, but in Scandinavia where I live the Depo-Provera generally isn't recommended to young women as research has shown that it tends to decrease bone density and indirectly cause osteoporosis. This is due to the fact that the hormone in Depo-Provera, medroxyprogesterone acetate, suppresses the body's oestrogen production whic is necessary for bone growth and sustainability. Planned Parenthood says: "Women who use Depo-Provera may have temporary bone thinning. It increases the longer they use Depo-Provera. Bone growth begins again when women stop using the shot. Whether or not there is a complete recovery of bone mass is unknown."

In my opinion the combined birth control pill is a better choice for most women because of the oestrogen component which sustains bone growth and strenght, despite that Depo-Provera is considered more efficient in preventing pregnancy.

I hope this helped you with making a decision. :)

Good luck!

Marina