Injection

What is the contraceptive injection?

The injection contains progestogen. It is given by a doctor or nurse once every 12 weeks.

Would a contraceptive injection suit me?

The injection is a long-acting hormonal method providing effective contraception. Progestogen-only injections are also suitable for women who are breast-feeding, and those who do not tolerate estrogen. The contraceptive injection has very high reliability when used properly.

Injections may also reduce heavy painful periods and help reduce premenstrual symptoms. Periods and fertility may take up to a year to return after stopping injections.

Some women experience headaches, dizziness, pimples and greasy skin, bloating, weight gain, breast tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and changes in mood and sex drive. As the hormones cannot be removed from the body once the injection has been administered, side effects may continue from the time of the injection and for some time afterwards. With the progestogen-only injection women may have a risk of losing bone mineral density which may increase the risk of osteoporosis.