Shot for Birth Control: Care Instructions

Overview

The shot is used to prevent pregnancy. You get the shot in your upper arm or rear end (buttocks). The shot gives you a dose of the hormone progestin. The shot is often called by its brand name, Depo-Provera.

The shot provides birth control for 3 months at a time. You then need another shot.

How can you care for yourself at home?

How do you use the birth control shot?

• If you get the shot within the first 7 days of starting your normal period, you are protected from pregnancy right away.
• If you get the shot more than 7 days after your period starts, use backup birth control, such as a condom, or don't have vaginal intercourse for 7 days.
• Talk to your doctor about a schedule to get the shot. You need the shot every 3 months. If you are late getting it, you'll need backup birth control.

What if you miss or are late for a shot?

Here are some basic guidelines:

• Use backup birth control, such as a condom, or don't have vaginal intercourse. Continue using one of these methods until 7 days after you get the missed or late shot.
• If you had vaginal intercourse and you don't want to get pregnant, you can use emergency contraception. The most effective emergency contraception is an IUD (inserted by a doctor). You can also get emergency contraceptive pills. You can get them with a prescription from your doctor or without a prescription at most drugstores.

What else do you need to know?

• The shot can have side effects.
  • You may have changes in your period and your period may stop. You may also have spotting or bleeding between periods.
  • You may have mood changes, less interest in sex, or weight gain.
• The shot may cause bone loss. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using the shot.
• Check with your doctor before you use any other medicines, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal products, and supplements. Birth control hormones may not work as well to prevent pregnancy when combined with other medicines.
• The shot doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as herpes or HIV. A condom can be used to reduce your risk of getting an STI.