Go back

How Effective Is the Birth Control Shot?

The birth control shot, Depo-subQ Provera 104, is approximately 94% effective in regular use. Its efficacy increases if you stay current on your shot schedule. You can go to a healthcare provider to get your injections every three months, or you can give yourself a shot at home every 12-13 weeks. As long as you stick to the schedule, Depo-subQ Provera 104 is a very effective means of birth control that doesn’t require you to take a daily pill or use a barrier method during sexual intercourse.

If you forget to get your shot within 15 weeks of your last one, you might get pregnant unless you use another method of birth control. You will also need to take a pregnancy test before receiving your next shot if you have had sex more than 15 weeks after your last shot.

Scheduling Your Shots

You can start using Depo-subQ Provera 104 at any time, although the timing of starting your shot will determine whether you need to use another form of birth control initially. If you get your first injection within seven days of your period starting, you’re protected from pregnancy immediately. If you get your first injection at any other time during your cycle, use an alternative birth control method for the first week.

Get the Birth Control Shot At Home

Nurx offers the birth control shot for as little as $0 with insurance or $75 per month without insurance.

To make sure Depo-subQ Provera 104 is effective for you, set up a schedule for getting your shots. You can use an app to track the timing of the injections or simply mark the date on a calendar. As long as you get your shot within the three-month period, you’ll be protected from getting pregnant.

Back to top