Effectiveness of the Injection
When used perfectly, the birth control shot effectiveness is more than 99%, meaning less than 1 out of every 100 people who use it will get pregnant each year. But when it comes to real life, the shot is about 94% effective, because sometimes people forget to get their shots on time. So, in reality, about 6 out of every 100 shot users will get pregnant each year.
The better you are about getting your shot on time, the better it will work. But there's a very small chance that you could still get pregnant, even if you always get the shot on time.
If effectiveness is the most important thing to you when picking what birth control to use, you might want to check out IUDs and the implant. They're the most effective kinds of birth control. But if you decide the shot is right for you, make sure you always get your follow-up shots on time.
What if I'm late getting my birth control shot?
If you get your shot late, you may not be protected from pregnancy — but it depends on how late you are. You can get your follow-up shots as early as 10 weeks after your last shot, or as late as 15 weeks after your last shot. But, if you get your shot more than 15 weeks after your last shot, you'll need to use another method of birth control, like a condom, for the first week after getting your shot.
If you have vaginal sex without using a condom more than 15 weeks after your last shot, you should use emergency contraception. You may also need to take a pregnancy test before getting your next shot. The best way to prevent pregnancy while using the shot? Make sure you always get your shot on time, every time.
Can I get the birth control shot safely?
Chances are the birth control shot will be safe for you — most people who use it have no problems. But you shouldn't use it if you've had breast cancer. Talk with your nurse or doctor about any other health conditions you have and you can decide together if the shot is a good fit for you.
What are the risks of the shot?
Even though the birth control shot is very safe, using birth control that has progestin can slightly increase your risk of certain health problems. These complications aren't common, but they can be serious. Your doctor or nurse can help you figure out what the risks are for you.
People who use the birth control shot may have temporary bone thinning. It increases the longer they use the shot. Bone density usually comes back after they stop using the birth control shot except for women who have already reached menopause. To protect your bones, stop smoking, limit your alcohol, and get regular exercise and extra calcium.
There's a very small chance that you can get pregnant even if you always use the shot correctly. The shot will not increase the risk of birth defects.
Most people using the birth control shot won't have any problems at all. But just in case, it's good to know what the signs of a serious issue are.
Tell your doctor or nurse if you have any of the following while using the shot:
-
severe depression
-
migraine with aura — bad headache where you see bright, flashing zigzags, usually before a bad headache
-
pus, pain for many days, or bleeding where you got the shot
-
very heavy bleeding from your vagina or bleeding for a lot more days than usual
-
yellowing of the skin or eyes
You can always call a nurse, doctor, or your local BFLA Center if you have any questions or if you're worried about any health issues.
Is it safe to use the birth control shot while breastfeeding?
Yes, it's safe to use the birth control shot while you're breastfeeding. It shouldn't have any effect on how much milk you produce, and it won't hurt your baby. In fact, the shot is a great method to use if you're breastfeeding and you don't want to get pregnant.