Contraceptive injection

The contraceptive injection is an injection containing the hormone progestogen.

There are two types of injectable contraceptives which are both given every 13 weeks. The Depo Provera is given in clinic with an injection into the muscle, usually in the bottom. The Sayana Press you can give yourself as a small injection underneath the skin of your abdomen or thigh, we will teach you how to do it in clinic.

The injection is typically 94% effective and most people will stop their periods with long term use, although the bleeding can be irregular when you first start. For some people, fertility can take up to a year to return to normal, so other methods may be more suitable if you want to plan a pregnancy soon. Weight gain sometimes affects people that use the injection. The injection does not protect you against STIs.

Who can give the injection?

Contraceptive injections can be given by a doctor or nurse. You can visit an Umbrella clinic to receive a contraceptive injection.