The birth control shot, also known as Depo Provera, is injected every three months and is between 97-99% effective in preventing pregnancy. While receiving the birth control injection eliminates the need to take a daily birth control pill, there are risks that include loss of bone density and weight gain.
Bone Loss, Weight Gain, and Fertility Decrease
The birth control shot can cause a reversible loss of bone density. For this reason, Depo Provera is not recommended for long-term use and should not be used by young women whose bones are still growing. If Depo Provera is used for two years or longer, a bone density test may be recommended by a doctor. Women on the birth control shot should increase calcium and vitamin D intake and exercise regularly.
According to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Texas Medical Branch, 70% of women receiving the birth control shot gained weight and some women were at risk of gaining weight long-term. In the study, one quarter of the women gained weight rapidly after starting birth control injections.
Some women may have decreased fertility up to a year after stopping the birth control shot. The fertility loss is not permanent, however, and most women are still able to get pregnant after stopping Depo Provera injections.
Pregnancy Complications
If a woman receiving the birth control shot becomes pregnant and chooses to continue the pregnancy, there is an increased risk of a premature birth occurring. Ectopic pregnancy is also more likely, a pregnancy complication that can be life threatening to the mother.
Other Risks and Side Effects
The birth control shot does not protect against STDs. According to KidsHealth.org, some scientists believe that it may actually increase the risk of STDs. Other side effects and risks of the birth control shot include sore breasts, change in sex drive, hair loss, depression, acne, allergic reactions, and a greater risk of experiencing a blood clot or stroke. A woman receiving birth control injections may experience heavy, irregular, or no bleeding. Many women stop having periods after a year of use. In fact, the longer a woman receives Depo Provera injections, the longer she may go without having a period.
According to Planned Parenthood, you should not get the birth control shot if you have breast cancer, a blood clot, bone fractures or are taking medicine for Cushing’s syndrome. The effects of birth control injections on breast cancer are not known. After stopping birth control injections, it can take six months to a year for the drug to completely leave the system. During this time, side effects may still be experienced.
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