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home > sexual information > contraception > contraceptive injection

Contraceptive injection

A contraceptive injection is given every 12 weeks, usually in the buttock. Like the single hormone pill, it contains a progestogen hormone, which is released into the blood very gradually. The best-known contraceptive injection is Depo-Provera.
The contraceptive injection is as effective as the pill. It works the same way, preventing ovulation, making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus, and making the inside lining of the uterus thinner.

Advantages of the contraceptive injection

the contraceptive injection does not interfere with sex
the contraceptive injection does not, like the pill, have to be taken every day

Disadvantages of the contraceptive injection

some people don’t like injections
bleeding is usually lighter but more irregular, and may go away altogether
side-effects may be the same as with the pill, and cannot be avoided as long as the injection works

Beginning with the contraceptive injection
The contraceptive injection is given on the first day of the period, or six weeks after the birth of a baby. The contraceptive injection is immediately effective. Breast-feeding is no problem.
The contraceptive injection is given by a physician or nurse.

Renewal of the contraceptive injection
After 12 weeks the contraceptive injection must be renewed.

For more information see www.fwhc.org