Facts About the Birth Control Shot

If you have heard about the birth control shot and wonder if it may be the right birth control method for you, there are several things you should know. Women who opt for the injection, receive a shot in their arm about every three months, just four times a year. It contains a hormone called progestin, which prevents a woman from ovulating. It also thickens the mucus in the cervix, which means that even if an egg were released, the sperm could not get past the thicker mucus to join with it.

This is about as effective as the  pill when used regularly. That means that less than 1% of women will get pregnant while using this method.

The shot is safe for most women, but just like any other form of birth control, there is the potential for side effects and you may not be a candidate for the shot if you have or have had certain medical conditions.

You will need to go to your doctor and have an examination before it can be administered to you.

This is a convenient method of birth control for many women. Just some of the benefits of this form of contraception include not having to do anything right before sexual activity and, unlike women who take the pill, not having to remember something every day.

You only have to deal with taking the shot four times a year, although it is important to take it at regular intervals.

The  injestion isn’t very expensive, either. The cost of the shot averages about $50, although you may have to pay for an exam as well. Usually, the first time you get a gynecological exam or see a particular doctor for the first time, it costs a little more.

Once you have established a regular routine, the exam and the shot can cost less than $100. If this form of contraception interests you, talk to your doctor to see if you are a candidate for the birth control shot.