Injection
What is the injection?
The contraceptive injection slowly releases the hormone progestrogen into the blood. This stops a woman releasing an egg. Progestrogen also thickens up the mucus in the cervix so sperm cannot get through.
What are the advantages?
- The injection is about 99% effective. That means that out of 100 women using te method, only 1 will become pregnant in a year.
- The injection doesn't get in the way of sex and can last for up to 12 weeks.
- It can protect you from cancer of the womb.
- You don't have to remember to take the injection everyday like you do with the pill.
What are the disadvantages?
- Some people find their periods become disrupted as a result of using the injection.
- Other side effects can include headaches, nausea, acne or slight weight gain.
- The injection will not protect you or your partner from sexually transmitted infections. However, if you use a condom as well as the injection, you will be well protected from pregnancy and STIs.
- The time period between getting repeat injections means it can be easier to forget than, for instance, the pill which must be taken far more regularly.
Where can I get hold of the injection?
Your family doctor or specialists at Contraception and Sexual Health clinics can advise you as to whether the injection is the best form of contraception for you. If it is, they will be able to provide it for you.