Birth Control Injections

The facts: Birth control injections (also called "the shot") are hormones injected into the arm, buttock or thigh to prevent pregnancy. Two types are currently available in the United States: Lunelle (the monthly injection) contains the hormones estrogen and progestin, and Depo-Provera (the 12-week injection) contains the hormone progestin. Injections do not protect you from HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

How well it works: Very effective in preventing pregnancy, with effectiveness rates as high as 99 percent for the monthly injection and 99.7 percent for the 12-week injection.

Pros:
• Very effective at providing continuous pregnancy prevention during the month (Lunelle) or 12-week period (Depo-Provera) following the injection.
• Can help to regulate menstruation and reduce bleeding and cramps.
• The 12-week injection is safe to use while breastfeeding.

Cons:
• Does not protect you from HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases.
• May be inconvenient to get injections on time every month (Lunelle) or every three months (Depo-Provera).
• Side effects may include irregular menstrual bleeding, weight gain, mood changes, acne or headaches.
• The monthly injection is not recommended for women over age 35 who smoke.
• The 12-week shot is not recommended for women who may want to get pregnant within a year.

Where to get it: Visit a health care provider or a family planning clinic to obtain the birth control injection.

Cost: Birth control injections ordinarily require an initial (and then yearly) visit with a clinician, which can cost from $50 to $150. The monthly injection costs about $50 a shot, while the 12-week injection costs about $75 an injection. Medicaid and some private health insurance plans cover most or some of these costs. Many family planning clinics provide services and supplies free or on a sliding scale, based on your income.