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the shot  
 
what it does
The shot contains the hormone progestin and it stops the sperm from getting into the egg.  The shot can also stop ovulation for some women.  The brand name is Depo-Proveraź and it lasts for 3 months.
what it doesn't do
The shot does NOT prevent sexually transmitted infections (STI).  Male and female condoms are the only forms of birth control that also offer protection against STIs.
how to use
A doctor or nurse must give a woman the shot in her upper arm or butt every three months.  The first shot should be given to her within the first five days of her period for it to work best.
 
side effects
The most common side effects are weight gain, acne, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding or having her period stop all together, hair loss and depression.  Prolonged use of the shot can also result in loss of bone density.  Women should talk with their doctor or a health care professional about these risks before starting.
is it right for me?
This is a good option if you or your partner find it hard to remember to take a pill every day or change a patch every week.  Women who are concerned about privacy may like the shot because it’s given at a doctor’s office so there’s no worry about someone finding a birth control method. 
 
 


 
where to get it
Women need a prescription and they have to get it from a trained doctor, health care provider, or at a family planning clinic.
cost
Depo-Proveraź costs between $30 and $75 for each shot.  There may be an additional cost for each doctor or clinic visit.  If you have health insurance, it may pay for all or part of the cost.  If you don't have health insurance or don't want to use your parents' insurance, family planning clinics provide the shot at a lower cost.
 
effectiveness
The shot is 97% to 99.7% effective. 
 
 
other forms of birth control
 

Hormonal Methods
The Shot
Implants
The Patch
The Pill
The Ring

Behavioral Methods
Abstinence
Outercourse
Pulling Out

Other Methods
IUD
Spermicide
Sterilization

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