Birth Control Shot

Birth control shots are a type of progesterone which is injected into the body of a woman. Progesterone is a natural hormone which is naturally found in the body of a woman and it is this hormone which can prevent the egg from being released. Once in three months the woman has to be injected with birth control medicines and it's injected in the buttocks or upper arm. You do have the birth control option of taking pills rather than shots, but if you are one of those who frequently forget to take pills, then shots may be better for you.

Birth Control Shot Facts
Some of the important facts include:

• Though there are reports that these shots have had some side effects in some women, they are relatively effective, safe and convenient to use.
• The effectiveness of birth control shots remain for the next three months.
• They are easily available, but you need to get a prescription from a doctor for getting these shots.

Birth Control Shots Pros and Cons
Other than birth control pills, these shots are an effective means against controlling pregnancy. It's only under very rare circumstances that women who get such shots become pregnant. However, if you have got a shot once and don't take another shot after three months, the chances of becoming pregnant are high. The efficiency of these shots depend on a number of factors like any other underlying health condition and other medications which you may be taking.

Similar to other medicines birth control shots may have their disadvantages, but only in some women. It has been found that most women adjust to its use but there are times when some woman face problems like irregular bleeding, periods becoming lighter and fewer or longer and heavier, slight bleeding between periods and increased spotting.

Side Effects of Birth Control Shot
Some of the side effects of these shots include irregular menstrual period, breast tenderness, depression, headache and weight gain. The FDA has warned against the frequent use of birth control shots as they may be harmful in the long run. Some studies have shown that bone loss may be a problem associated with these shots. However, once shots are stopped, the bone density can come back to normal. If you are thinking of getting these shots make sure that have enough calcium rich foods or calcium supplements. If you are prone to smoking and are thinking of getting birth control shots, it's better to consult your doctor first as smoking may lead to other side effects of the shot. In many women, it's noticed that the fertility rate is decreased for about a year after the shot is stopped. But the good thing is that the loss of fertility is not permanent and you can get pregnant again.

Birth Control Shot Vs. Pill
Whether you prefer birth control pill or shot the main function is the same - avoiding pregnancy. Irrespective of your choice, both of them are relatively safe and they reduce the pain and cramping of menstrual cycle. The only difference between the two is that if you prefer pills, you will need to take them continuously or else you may become pregnant. On the other hand, if you get a shot, you don't need to worry after getting one for the next three months.

Weight Gain due to Birth Control Shot
Weight gain is a major problem associated with getting these shots if used over long periods of time. It has been found that more than half the women tested with these shots have reported of gaining weight. Research has shown that some women gain 5 pounds which can go to more than 10 pounds after prolonged use. However, if the shots are stopped, there are chances that you would get back to your normal weight.

Birth Control Shot Cost
A single shot costs about USD 60. However, it is only for the shot and not for the visit to a doctor and other tests which may be required. In case you get late for the next shot, you may need to go through a pregnancy test which may cost you additional money. You may also get the shot in a family planning or fertility clinic, if you want to save a few dollars as they charge less. There are several health insurance plans which cover a part or all the costs associated with the shot.

Birth Control Shot Reviews
People using birth control shots have mixed feeling after using it. Some say it helps, while other have a pretty negative impression using it. In some women who have been using it for the past few months say that it has worked excellently, but those who have used it longer say that its side effects increase over time. Hair fall and weight gain are the common problems associated with getting a shot, not to mention mood swings, low sex drive, depression and fatigue.

Therefore, before starting birth control shots it's important you consult a qualified medical professional so that you are well-informed about all the reactions and side effects which may affect you. You need to get yourself monitored from time to time so that the adverse effects don't affect you.