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People love convenience, and convenience in birth control is no exception. Depo Provera, the birth control shot, is a popular form of birth control for this reason. If you are thinking about Depo Provera, you may want to start with why it is so convenient. The most important reason is that the birth control shot will eliminate the need for other methods of birth control. Whether you have been using birth control pills, condoms, or another method, you may have experienced annoyance at their inconvenience. These include the need to use them regularly, ensuring that you have them on hand, and the cost involved in purchasing these products. You will not have to deal with any of these factors if you choose to receive injections instead.

Depo Provera is currently available in two versions. The main difference between the two is the amount of hormone in the products. This can make choosing the birth control shot that is best for you easier for your physician.

Birth control shots provide some of the same benefits as birth control pills, without the hassle of using them on a daily basis. While each woman has different experiences, these benefits can include lighter menstrual periods after the body has become accustomed to the hormone, and a reduction in PMS. They also have some of the same drawbacks, such as breakthrough bleeding, especially before the body has become accustomed to the hormone. Many women who use Depo Provera also experience weight gain.

Birth control shots are not for everyone. First, there are a number of medical contraindications to the use of birth control shots. This is why it is essential for your physician to do a complete evaluation, and closely examine your medical history, prior to recommending Depo Provera. Some of the most common contraindications are histories of cancer, problems with bone density, and high blood pressure. The potential effect of Depo Provera on bone density is a reason why these birth control shots are generally not recommended for adolescents.

Second, lifestyle factors can influence whether Depo Provera is appropriate for you. If you are a cigarette smoker, or consume more than a moderate amount of alcohol, you should either refrain from using Depo Provera or quit these habits prior to using it. As these habits can cause serious health problems, it is essential to be honest with your physician when you request birth control shots.

As Depo Provera is an injection, you should be aware of the possible side effects. These can include pain or soreness in the area of the injection, and allergic reactions. While these problems may or may not be serious, they should be brought to your physician's attention if they do occur. He may decide that birth control shots are not the right method for you.

If your physician has given you a clean bill of health, and you are ready to eliminate the inconveniences of other birth control methods from your life, birth control shots may be the best solution for you.