Be Good to Yourself - Don't Use Depo-Provera

     Despite a recent letter praising Depo-Provera, the choice to use it should be well informed.

     Depo-Provera is a long-acting, man-made hormone that works in one of three ways: It occasionally prevents the release of an egg; It can cause the mucus in the cervix to change so that sperm cannot enter; and It can irritate the lining of the uterus so that if either of the above fail the tiny baby that results will die before implantation in the womb. Since science has proven that life begins at fertilization, not implantation, we call this a chemical abortion.

     Is Depo-Provera safe? Documented side effects include increased risk of breast and cervical cancer, excessive bleeding, temporary or permanent sterility, potential damage to future children, anxiety, nervousness, adrenal gland suppression, weight gain, hair loss, decreased sex drive, mood swings, dizziness, fatigue, and severe mental depression.

     Depo-Provera also offers no protection against sexually transmitted diseases including AIDS. These facts also apply to Norplant and all oral contraceptives.

     What is a woman's best option? If you're single, abstinence is always your best choice. By abstaining from sex, you eliminate the possibility of pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease.

     If you're married, be faithful to your spouse. Take the time to learn about natural methods, which increase your awareness of your body and how it works. Natural methods involve no potentially harmful chemicals, can be just as effective, and never threaten the life of your preborn child. Be good to yourself. Don't use Depo-Provera.