Dear Javurg,

The shot (brand name Depo Provera) is not a "bad" method of birth control. It's up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy, and most women can use it. All birth control methods have both advantages and disadvantages. For information on the advantages and disadvantages of the shot, check out Is the Shot Right for You?

It can take an average of nine to 10 months — sometimes longer — to get pregnant after getting the last shot. However, since a woman can become pregnant soon after she stops the shot, she should use another method of birth control if she does not want to become pregnant.

For information about different methods of birth control, check out Birth Control Choices for Teens.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.