North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The primary action of Depo Provera, a form of hormonal contraception, is to suppress the LH surge and inhibit ovulation. By preventing the surge of luteinizing hormone, Depo Provera effectively stops the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. This mechanism is crucial in ensuring that ovulation does not occur, thus significantly reducing the likelihood of pregnancy.

In addition to its primary action of inhibiting ovulation, Depo Provera also has secondary effects, such as thickening the cervical mucus, which acts as a barrier to sperm and further decreases the chance of fertilization. However, the fundamental and most critical role of this medication lies in its ability to prevent ovulation by modulating hormone levels.

This understanding is vital for midwives and healthcare providers when discussing contraceptive options, as explaining how Depo Provera works can help patients make informed choices regarding their reproductive health.