When should I schedule my next Depo‑Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) injection after my last dose?

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Next Depo-Provera Injection Window

Schedule your next Depo-Provera injection at 13 weeks (91 days) from your last injection, with a grace period extending to 14 weeks (98 days) without requiring backup contraception. 1

Standard Scheduling Window

  • The repeat injection should be administered every 13 weeks (91 days) as the standard interval recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics and FDA labeling. 1, 2

  • You have up to 14 weeks (98 days) from your last injection to receive the next dose while maintaining full contraceptive protection without needing backup contraception. 1

  • Many providers schedule appointments at 11-12 weeks to provide a buffer for missed appointments, ensuring you stay within the protective window. 1

If You Miss the 14-Week Window

  • If more than 14 weeks have passed since your last injection, you can still receive Depo-Provera if reasonably certain you are not pregnant, but you must use backup contraception (condoms or abstinence) for 7 consecutive days after the injection. 1

  • Consider emergency contraception if unprotected intercourse occurred within 5 days before receiving a late injection. 1

Early Injections

  • There are no time limits on early injections—you can receive your next dose earlier than 13 weeks if necessary (e.g., travel plans, scheduling conflicts). 1

  • Early administration does not compromise effectiveness or safety. 1

Critical Timing Points

  • Within 14 weeks (98 days): Full contraceptive protection continues, no backup needed 1

  • After 14 weeks (>98 days): Can still receive injection but requires 7 days of backup contraception 1

  • Ovulation suppression lasts at least 14 weeks after a 150 mg intramuscular dose, which is why the 14-week window exists. 3

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Do not delay receiving a late injection out of concern—it can be given at any time if reasonably certain you are not pregnant, though backup contraception will be needed if beyond 14 weeks. 1

  • Do not assume you need to wait for your menstrual period to receive a late injection—immediate administration with backup contraception is the correct approach. 1

  • Always use condoms regardless of injection timing for STI protection, as Depo-Provera provides no protection against sexually transmitted infections. 1

References

Guideline

DMPA Injection Dosing and Administration

Praxis Medical Insights: Practical Summaries of Clinical Guidelines, 2025

Research

Long-acting injectable contraception with depot medroxyprogesterone acetate.

American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 1994

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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