The Depo-Provera shot is working if it effectively prevents pregnancy, which it does by stopping ovulation and thickening cervical mucus. It starts working immediately if given during the first five days of your period. If given at any other time, it takes about 7 days to become effective, during which you should use backup contraception like condoms. A pregnancy test before each new injection can help confirm it is working. Common signs that it is active include changes in your menstrual cycle, such as irregular periods or no periods at all, since after about a year, about half of users stop getting their periods. If you miss or are late for your shot, it might not be effective, and pregnancy risk increases.
How to Know if Depo Shot is Working
- Starts immediately if given during early period; otherwise effective in 7 days.
- Use backup contraception during the first 7-10 days if not given during period.
- Pregnancy tests before injections can confirm ongoing effectiveness.
- Common signs: changes or absence of menstrual periods, as the hormones suppress ovulation.
- Keep on schedule (every 12 weeks) for full effectiveness; delays reduce efficacy.
What to Watch For
- Changes in menstrual bleeding patterns (may become irregular or stop).
- No physical pain or side effects are definitive signs of effectiveness.
- If pregnancy symptoms occur or periods continue normally without change, check with a healthcare provider.
If there's severe reaction at the injection site or unusual symptoms, consult a doctor promptly.
