What is a Birth Control Shot?
 

A birth control shot is a normal injection containing progesterone. It's directly inserted into the blood stream. It prevents pregnancy by either delaying the release of eggs by ovaries or by stopping fertilisation or by not letting the fertilised egg implant itself in the uterus. 

There are three varieties of shots:

• Depo-provera (taken on buttocks or upper arm)

• Sayana Press (taken on abdomen or thigh)

• Noristerat (taken on buttocks or upper arm)

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The effect of the shot may impact your fertility for almost an year, so it's not advised for women who may want a child in the near future.

 

Effectiveness: 99 % effective

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How long does it Last: The injection lasts for different timelines:

• Depo-provera (lasts upto 13 weeks)

• Sayana Press (lasts for 13 weeks)

• Noristerat (lasts for 8 weeks

However, the complete impact of the shot wears out in almost a year. You need to remember to repeat the shot as soon as the old one expires. It is advised to take the shot within the first 5 days of the menstruation cycle, otherwise use an additional contraception for 7 days.

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Cost: INR 250 t o 300 per shot
 

Where to Buy: Available in Health centres (with prescription)
 

STD Protection: No
 

Safe During Pregnancy: No
 

Side Effects: 

• Headaches

• Mood swings

• Mild insulin resistance

• Changes in menstruation patterns

• Abdominal pain

• Nausea

• High Blood Pressure

• Breast/cervical cancer

• Dizziness

• Acne

• Unwanted growth of body hair

• Decreased bone mineral density

• Fatigue

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When to Avoid: 

• In cases of heart disease

• History of stroke

• Liver disease

• Family history of breast cancer

• Osteoporosis

• If you have irregular periods

• History of depression

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It can be used immediately after childbirth/abortion/miscarriage. But if you are breastfeeding, it is suggested to wait for 6 weeks before you get the shot. 

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