Birth control by injection is an effective alternative used which has its own advantages and disadvantages. The most effective and popular form of this type of contraceptive is Depo-Provera. This injection works in the same way as the hormonal pill Progestogen. It does not contain estrogen.

DMPA, Depo-Provera is an injection of synthetic hormone medroxyprogesterone acetate which is given by health care professional and is injected into the woman’s buttocks or the arm muscle. The prevention begins after twenty four hours of the injection. This injection prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs. The woman has to take the injection once every twelve weeks. That means this injection can be given every three months and you do not have to take it regularly like the pills.

Advantages:

DMPA is extremely effective as the failure rate within the first year of use is only 0.3%. It is advantageous as it does not produce any side effects as estrogen such as blood clotting. Irregular periods become regular. It also lowers the risk of certain endometrial and ovarian cancers.

Disadvantages:

The injection has the disadvantage that it does not provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases. DMPA can delay the return of fertility if women have used it for a longer period. Problems such as menstrual irregularities, headaches, dizziness, nausea, hair loss, depression and weight gain can continue for about one year after the last injection.

There are some serious risks associated with Depo-Provera such as loss of bone density which could result in osteoporosis. This injection is not recommended for long time use as it causes deficiency of calcium causing osteoporosis. The women who are on this injection are advised to take a lot of calcium. Depo-Provera is especially not recommended for young females as their bones are still growing.