Beyond the Pill

Not squeamish about shots? Then Depo-Provera injections may be the perfect birth control method for you. They are convenient, discreet, and reliable. As long as you receive the shot every three months (between weeks 11 and 13), you are protected from pregnancy at a 99 percent effectiveness rate. Depo-Provera does not contain estrogen, so it's a good choice for women who have estrogen-related hormonal issues.

Side effects include lighter periods, and some women stop having their periods altogether after taking Depo-Provera for a year. It may cause weight gain, and in younger women, a temporary decrease in bone mass density may occur, as with other hormonal-based birth control methods, according to www.depoprovera.com.