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Progestin-Only Hormonal Methods (Mini-Pills, Implants, and Shots)

How It Works

Reference Progestin Opens New Window-only Reference birth control Opens New Window methods, including pills (called "mini-pills"), implants, and shots, prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulation), thicken mucus at the cervix so sperm cannot enter the uterus, and in rare cases, prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.

Birth control mini-pills

Progestin-only mini-pills come in a monthly pack. To be effective, the pills must be taken at the same time each day. If you take a pill more than 3 hours late:

Take it as soon as you remember even if that means you will take 2 pills in one day. Use another method of birth control for the next 48 hours to prevent pregnancy.^{Reference 1}
Consider using emergency contraception if you have had sex in the past 3 to 5 days.

Implant

The progestin-only implant releases hormones that prevent pregnancy for 3 years. The actual implant is a thin rod about the size of a matchstick. This is inserted under the skin on the inside of the upper arm.

The implant is a highly effective method of birth control.
The implant must be inserted and removed by a trained health professional.

Shots

The birth control shot, such as Depo-Provera, is effective for 12 to 13 weeks.

By:	Reference Healthwise Staff	Last Revised: May 3, 2012
Medical Review:	Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine Reference Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology