Family Planning Plus

Since you were on Depo, your periods may be irregular for a while so it is difficult to say. However, usually sex that occurs just before, during, or just after the menstrual period does not result in pregnancy. If you don’t want to be pregnant, you can reduce your risk of pregnancy by using Plan B.

Plan B works by rapidly elevating hormone levels to delay ovulation (the monthly release of an egg) for a few days. It must be used within 120 hours after unprotected sex, but works best when it is used within the first 24 hours after sex. The sooner you use it, the better. Plan B is available over the counter at most drug stores to individuals 17 or older. You do have to ask the pharmacist for Plan B as it is located behind the counter, and you may have to show ID to prove your age. It costs about $50. If you are under 17, you will need a prescription. Regardless of your age, you can also get Plan B at most Family Planning and Planned Parenthood offices for little or no cost.

If you are not planning a pregnancy, please contact the provider who prescribed your Depo. If you don’t want to restart the shot, they can talk with you about other contraceptive options and help you choose the method that’s best for you. In the meantime, either abstain from sexual intercourse or use condoms from start to finish for all acts of sexual intercourse.