How much does the birth control shot cost?

What is Depo-Provera and how does it work?


It's a shot of synthetic progesterone that you get every three months to prevent pregnancy. Like other hormonal birth control methods (including the Pill), Depo-Provera works by preventing ovulation 鈥?so the ovary doesn't release an egg to be fertilized. It also alters the lining of your uterus, making it hard for an egg to lodge there if one does slip through; and thickens the mucus around your cervix, which can keep sperm from entering.





Is Depo-Provera a good choice for contraception?


Pros


Depo-Provera may be a good option for you 鈥?especially if you're a busy, new mom because it's convenient: You don't have to remember to take a pill every day or to insert or apply any devices or products before intercourse. You just get the shot every three months. In fact, some women choose to get the first injection the day they leave the hospital after giving birth. And if you're careful about having your shots on time, it's more than 99 percent effective. Progesterone (the same hormone used in birth control pills) prevents you from ovulating; thins the lining of your uterus, making it hard for an egg to lodge there if one does slip through; and thickens the mucus around your cervix, which can keep sperm from entering.





Cons


On the other hand, if you decide to have another baby, you can't just go off it and expect to get pregnant right away. It may take you up to a year after you stop the injections to start ovulating again, even though your period may return to normal after about six months. So if you think you might want to get pregnant in the next year, this isn't the right choice for you. This method also may not be a good choice if you have a history of unexplained vaginal bleeding, major depression, diabetes, breast cancer, or any liver disease (including hepatitis and abnormal results on liver-function tests). Finally, Depo-Provera won't protect you from sexually transmitted infections.





Is it safe to use Depo-Provera if I'm nursing?


According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Depo-Provera is a safe choice for breastfeeding women. Depo-Provera doesn't affect the quality of breast milk (like combination estrogen/progesterone contraceptives can). And studies have found that it's not harmful to babies. Though the makers of Depo-Provera suggest that you wait until your child is older than six weeks to use this method if you're nursing (that's the age group they studied for approval of the drug), many doctors say this is overly cautious and that you can start taking it right away.





How do I get the shot?


First you'll need a physical to insure you don't have any conditions that would make Depo-Provera a bad choice for you. Your gynecologist or a health-care worker at a women's clinic will give you the injection in your buttock or upper arm. She or he will usually recommend that you get the first one within five days after your period starts, so you can be absolutely sure you're not pregnant. You should use a backup method such as condoms for a week after your first shot. Subsequent shots will be effective immediately as long as you're getting them every 12 weeks. Realistically, there's a small amount of overlap between shots, so if you're late for your 12 week shot, it's not the end of the world. Still, be sure to use a backup method of contraception such as a condom to be on the safe side if you're late for your shot. Each shot costs between $30 and $75, depending on where you have it done and your insurance coverage.





Are there any side effects?


You may have irregular periods or spotting for the first three to six months, but many women eventually stop menstruating altogether while they're on Depo-Provera. This means you're less likely to become anemic, since you won't be losing all that iron in your menstrual blood. It also significantly reduces the risk that you'll develop endometriosis, acute pelvic inflammatory disease, or cancer of the uterus (endometrial cancer).





On the downside, some women complain of side effects, such as feeling bloated, weight gain, headaches, nausea, dizziness, acne, breast tenderness, decreased sex drive, nervousness, insomnia, or moodiness or depression. Although Depo-Provera may cause a temporary loss in bone density, (this is reversed once you stop the injections) it hasn't been shown to increase your risk for fractures or osteoporosis. Researchers are looking into whether long-term use can do permanent damage to your bones. Call your doctor if you develop a skin rash or itching or if you have trouble breathing after a shot; you may be allergic to this form of progesterone.How much does the birth control shot cost?
I don't have insurance so I have to pay around $75 for the Depoprovera or $65 for the generic.How much does the birth control shot cost?
if you have a planned parenthood where you live at then go there and tell them you have no insurance. they'll make you fill out some paper work and then you can get the shot for free
Nothing if you have insurance otherwise it'll run about $70 for each shot.
in canada i pay 35 dollars every three months
My sister was on the depo shot and she gained 40 pounds within 6ish months. I dont know if it is a side effect but I have heard this before... anyone else?
Try health centers or planned parenting in your neighborhood. It's free for teenagers, and about $40 bucks for anyone over twenty (in FL).