“I am on The Depo Shot and the last time I had my period it lasted for 39 days. I was very worried and called my doctor but she said that was normal. Now it’s been two months since my period and I have had sex with my boyfriend using the pullout method. Should I take a pregnancy test to be sure?”
Once you begin Depo Provera for contraception, your periods may be early or late, shorter or longer, or heavier or lighter than normal. You may also have some spotting between periods, especially during the first several months of use.
Over time, your periods may stop completely, and this is normal. As long as you are getting your injections every 3 months, you should continue to be protected against pregnancy.
When you stop getting the Depo Provera shots, your periods will usually return within a year, but you are not protected against pregnancy.
If you have missed an injection, or if more than 13 weeks pass between injections and you think you may be pregnant, see your doctor.
Just a reminder, Depo Provera does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections so latex condoms should be used.
“Can you get pregnant while on The Depo Shot?”
Although it is uncommon, there is a small chance. For 100 women that use the Depo Provera Shots, about 10 will experience an unintended pregnancy. Therefore, it is really important to get the shots on time. Depo Provera shots are every 3 months.
Remember: the Depo Provera shot does not protect against sexually transmitted infections so use a latex condom for added protection against pregnancy and infection.
