Shot

How it works:

You need to get the birth control shot every 3 months to prevent pregnancy. It works by releasing the naturally occurring hormone progestin. The shot prevents you from getting pregnant by stopping your body from releasing an egg. When you get the shot on time every three months it is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Perks:

  • Will lighten or stop periods

  • Decreases period cramps

  • Easy to keep private

  • Long-lasting

  • May be able to give the shot to yourself

  • Can stop using it on your own 

  • Excellent at preventing pregnancy

Drawbacks:

  • Can cause irregular spotting and bleeding

  • Must return to clinic every 12-13 weeks to get a shot

  • Doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)