How effective is the Depo shot?
The birth control shot — Depo-Provera — is one of the most effective methods of birth control available. Each shot of Depo-Provera will protect you from pregnancy for 12 weeks. It works best when you get the birth control shot regularly, every 12 weeks. Fewer than one out of 100 women will get pregnant each year if they always use the birth control shot as directed. About six out of 100 women will get pregnant each year if they don’t always use the birth control shot as directed.
so i guess im the one out of 100 who got pregnant on depot shot. i didnt have sex for a week, went to the clinic got a negative pregnancy test, got the shot that day, had sex after 3 days and i just discovered im 12 week pregnant and i tracked it back to the 3rd day i had sex after the depot shot. is it because 3 days were not enough for the depot shot to work in the body or is it just a fail? it was the first time i get the shot and i wasnt on birth control for a month before that.
Hi there,
If you get the shot within the first seven days after the start of your period, you’re protected from pregnancy immediately. Otherwise, you need to use a backup form of birth control (like a condom) for the first week after getting the shot.
Looking for information about pregnancy? Visit our website for information on the states of pregnancy, prenatal care, and pregnancy options.
Alex
Is it possible for the shot to cause effects on other parts of your body, such as the kidney or heart if i am already having problems with it? or possibly infertility in the future?
Hi there,
Depo-provera — the shot — is a safe and effective form of birth control. Like all medications, there are some risks associated with the shot, and certain conditions can increase the risk of serious side effects. Serious side effects of the shot are rare, and you and your health care provider can discuss whether or not another birth control method is preferable for you. You can learn more about the shot and its side effects here.
Because the shot is long lasting, it can take a long time to get pregnant after your last shot — anywhere from 6 to 10 months.
Alex
is it possible to get pregnant if a your sexually active but have the birth control [shot] and he has came approximately twice?
Hi there,
If you’re getting the birth control shot regularly (every 12 weeks), you’re protected from pregnancy, no matter how much sex you have. Read more here.
-Nina