How long does it take to get pregnant after stopping Depo-Provera shots or birth control pills?
Some doctors recommend that you wait at least one menstrual cycle before trying to become
pregnant to allow the birth control drugs like Depo-ProveraŽ
to entirely leave your system and your body to resume normal ovulation (usually within one to
three months). If you are waiting out this time before trying to conceive, use a barrier method
of birth control (such as a condom or diaphragm). A waiting period also allows you to make sure
your health habits are optimal for pregnancy (not smoking, avoiding alcohol, and getting folic
acid in your diet).
If you were ovulating irregularly before you started the pill, it may take you longer to
conceive than a woman who ovulates regularly. The time it takes to become pregnant varies from
woman to woman. Ninety percent of women will become pregnant within one year. If you do not
become pregnant within one year, you may consider seeing a fertility specialist.
If you were using the Depo-ProveraŽ
shot (medroxyprogesterone
injectable), getting pregnant will take a little longer. The drug remains in your body for
three months since your last shot. If you just recently received this injection, you will not
be able to become pregnant for at least three months. Overall, it may take up to 18 months for
some women to become pregnant after stopping the Depo-ProveraŽ shot.
Remember that most home pregnancy
tests should be used seven to 14 days after your last missed period. If you try to test too
early, the hormone that these tests detect may not have accumulated in your urine. This will
result in a false negative result.
Learn more about birth control options
for women in the Health Encyclopedia.
View Walgreens.com intimacy and
sexual wellness products, including over-the-counter contraceptives and pregnancy tests.
If you're looking for more specific answers to specific questions, ask a Walgreens pharmacist here.
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