- Birth control
- Birth control shot
Birth control shot
What is the birth control shot?
The shot is just what it sounds like—a shot that keeps you from getting pregnant. Once you get it, your birth control is covered for three full months—there’s nothing else you have to do. Some people call the shot “Depo,” short for Depo-Provera. (Pronounced like Johnny Depp-oh.) The shot contains progestin, a hormone that prevents your ovaries from releasing eggs. It also thickens your cervical mucus, which helps block sperm from getting to the egg in the first place. Worth considering even if you’re afraid of needles… Because what’s a little prick compared to a pregnancy?
Quick Facts
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Effectiveness
The shot is very effective the way most people use it.
Perfect use: Over 99% effective
Typical use: 96% effective
What are perfect use and typical use?
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Hormones
The shot contains the hormone progestin.
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Side effects
Irregular bleeding, changes to appetite, and weight gain are the most common side effects.
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Cost
Could range from $0 (with insurance) to $200 every three months.
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STI protection
The shot doesn’t protect against STIs.
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Ongoing effort
You have to either go to a provider to get a shot or do your shot at home every 12 to 13 weeks.
Types of birth control shots
In-office shot (Depo-Provera)
Most people get their Depo shot at their health care provider’s office or at a health center. All you need to do is make and keep regular appointments with your provider. To get started on Depo, you will go to an appointment with your provider, you may have an exam (which is not required), and then you’ll get an injection into a muscle in your arm or in your butt. Every 13 to 15 weeks, you’ll see your provider again for another injection.
At-home shot (Depo-subQ Provera)
With the at-home birth control shot (Depo-subQ Provera), you use a different version of the shot that has a very small needle, and you either inject yourself or have someone else inject you. With the at-home birth control shot, you’ll be injecting the medication just under your skin rather than into a muscle. That’s why the needle is smaller.
If you choose the at-home birth control shot, you’ll need a prescription from a health care provider, and you’ll either pick up the shot at the pharmacy every three months or have it mailed to you if you’re using telehealth.
We can help you find an in person provider or online birth control delivery service.
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