Contraceptive Injection
Sex Sense clinics can provide the contraceptive injection - a long lasting form of contraception.
Contraceptive injections – ‘Depo’
Progestogen-only injections are very effective, long-term hormonal methods of contraception. One advantage these contraceptives have over other hormonal methods of contraception (such as the pill) is that you do not have to remember to take them every day. Once you have an injection, you should be protected from pregnancy for as long as they are in place.
What are the advantages of contraceptive injections?
- You don't have to think about contraception for as long as the injection lasts.
- They do not interfere with sex.
- You can use them if you are breastfeeding.
- They give you some protection against cancer of the womb.
- They give some protection against pelvic inflammatory disease.
- They are useful if you cannot take oestrogens, like those in the combined pill.
What are the disadvantages of contraceptive injections?
- Your periods will probably change. At first, bleeding can be irregular and may last for longer than usual. Or your periods may stop altogether. A few women have frequent light bleeding. This may be a nuisance but is not harmful.
- Irregular bleeding may continue for some months after you stop the injections. See your doctor if you are worried.
Where can I get a contraceptive injection?
All Sex Sense and Contraception (Family planning) clinics, and most GPs provide free contraceptive injections. You can go to any other GP if you prefer not to see your own doctor.
How effective is a contraceptive injection?
It is over 99% effective. This means that less than 1 woman in 100 will get pregnant in a year.
