Irregular bleeding or spotting for six months is one of the most common side effects of Depo-Provera. Treatment may include over-the-counter or prescription medication.

The birth control shot, Depo-Provera, is a hormone injection that can prevent unplanned pregnancy. The birth control shot delivers a high dose of the hormone progestin. Progestin is a synthetic version of progesterone, which is a naturally occurring sex hormone in the body.

Irregular bleeding is the most common side effect of the birth control shot. For many women, that side effect often goes away over time. Here’s what you should know if you’re on the shot and experiencing unusual bleeding.

Depo-Provera can cause irregular bleeding and other side effects.

Irregular bleeding

The most common side effect of the birth control shot is irregular bleeding. You may experience bleeding problems for up to six months after you first begin using the shot. The most common bleeding problems include:

1. Breakthrough bleeding

Some people will experience bleeding or spotting between periods for several months after beginning the shot. Around 57% of people using the birth control shot experience episodes of unexpected bleeding during the first year of use.

2. Heavy periods

You may find that the shot makes your periods heavier and longer. This isn’t as common, but it’s possible. This may resolve after you’ve been using Depo-Provera for several months.

3. Lighter periods or no periods

After a year of using the birth control shot, many people report that they no longer have periods. The absence of a period, which is called amenorrhea, is safe and common if you’re on the shot. If your period doesn’t stop entirely, you may experience a much lighter and shorter period.

Other side effects

Beyond bleeding, other side effects are often rare and mild. These side effects can include:

Most people will adjust to the hormone levels of a birth control shot in several months or after a few rounds of treatment. Serious problems are very rare.

Depo-Provera delivers a high dose of progestin in each shot. With each injection, the body needs time to adjust to the new level of hormones. The first few months with the birth control shot are typically the worst regarding side effects and symptoms. After your third or fourth injection, your body knows how to respond to the increase, and you may notice few to no issues.

Because the birth control shot is designed to be long lasting, there’s nothing you can do to stop the hormone’s effects once you’ve been injected. Instead, you have to wait out any side effects and symptoms.

If your periods become very heavy or you bleed continuously for more than seven days, make an appointment to speak with a doctor.

Although many people can get the birth control shot without any complications or issues, it isn’t safe for everyone. Be sure to discuss your birth control options and any potential risk factors with your doctor.

You shouldn’t get the Depo-Provera shot if you:

  • have or have had breast cancer
  • are pregnant
  • have experienced bone-thinning or bone fragility issues, including breaks and fractures
  • take aminoglutethimide, which is a medicine used to treat Cushing’s disease
  • want to get pregnant soon

Most side effects of the birth control shot will fade after the first six months. However, it’s important to talk with a doctor if you’re experiencing side effects, like bleeding and spotting, especially if they become a problem for you.

Certain medications may help to stop the bleeding and spotting side effects of the birth control shot. However, there is no evidence to support routine use of this type of treatment.

The first option a doctor might suggest is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as ibuprofen (Advil). A doctor may have you take this for five to seven days.

If an NSAID doesn’t work, a doctor may suggest supplemental estrogen. Estrogen supplementation is thought to promote tissue repair and coagulation. The estrogen supplement won’t reduce the effectiveness of the birth control shot, but it does increase your risk of estrogen-related side effects.

The hormone from the birth control shot stays in your body for at least three months. Side effects, such as bleeding, may continue for several weeks beyond the shot’s effectiveness window. These side effects may last for several more weeks or months after stopping.

Experiencing bleeding after your first birth control shot is common. Most people get breakthrough bleeding or spotting for the first several months after they begin getting the shot. It may take six months to a year for the side effects to subside. For some people, their period may completely stop.

Before you have your injection, it can be helpful to speak with a doctor about any side effects you’ve noticed and what you can expect over the next three months.

Once your body adjusts, you may find that you appreciate the ease of use and protection provided by the shot.