Pitfalls of Injectable Birth Control
If you’re looking to keep your bones strong and healthy you may want to avoid the injectable forms of birth control (‘the birth control shot’). Recent studies have shown that women who receive injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) (also known as Depo-Provera) have an increased risk of bone fracture compared to women not on this form of birth control. DMPA appears to diminish bone mineralization resulting in an increase in bone loss, making the bones weaker and more susceptible to fracture. DMPA is currently used by over 9 million women across the world, and includes a significant use among teenagers in the United States and Europe.
In women under 50 years old, the use of DMPA for two or more years is associated with a 50% increased risk of fracture. During adolescence building bone is at its peak. DMPA interferes with this building process and may lead to accelerated bone loss later in life, particularly in the areas of the hip and lower spine.
A study reported in the January 2010 issue of Obstetrics and Gynecology, showed that women on DMPA who smoke, have a daily calcium intake of 600 milligrams (mg) of less and have never given birth are at the greatest risk for bone mineral density loss.
Another downside to the use of DMPA is possible weight gain. Researchers at the University of Texas discovered that of women who gain weight while using DMPA, early weight gain (within the first 6 months of using the drug) signifies an increased risk for excessive weight gain (an average of 24 pounds gained over three years of use). This weight gain occurs mostly in the abdominal region and results in an increased risk of metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes.
These findings may lead one to question whether this form of birth control is the best choice for young women. It is essential to talk to your physician about all of your options. For some women this may indeed be the best option. If this is the case, make sure to take other precautions to protect your bone health as well as your overall wellness. Begin by maintaining a daily routine of weight-bearing exercise and cardiovascular fitness. This may include running, brisk walking, cycling, resistance weight work, tennis, dance classes, skiing, yoga, and martial arts. Make sure you are consuming adequate amounts of calcium and magnesium and if not, consider supplementing with at least 1000 milligrams of calcium and 500 milligrams of magnesium daily. Include vitamin D(3) in that regimen and be sure to eat at least five servings of fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Vitamin K also plays an important role in maintaining healthy bones. You’ll find vitamin K in foods like kale, spinach, Swiss chard, broccoli, collards, and other greens.
May 24, 2010
by Optimum WellnessComments
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