How does it work?
The contraceptive injection works by stopping you releasing an egg every month. It also thickens the mucus from your cervix making it difficult for the sperm to swim through it to fertilise the egg and it thins the lining of the womb so it's less likely to accept a fertilised egg.
Is it effective?
Yes, it's 99% effective, although of the two leading brands Depo-Provera and Noristerat, the former is the more effective.
How do I get it?
You need to go to your GP or family planning clinic. A nurse or doctor will inject it into your bum, leg or arm. Noristerat is a thicker solution so you may find the injection is slightly more painful when it is given. Depo-Provera is given every 12 weeks and Noristerat every 8 weeks.
Why should I get it?
You don't have to think about contraception for 12 or 8 weeks (depending on whether you opt for Depo-Provera or Noristerat) so you can have uninterrupted sex
You can use it while breastfeeding
Depo-Provera and Noristerat are not affected by other medicines
If you suffer from heavy periods it may lighten them and help with PMS
It may give you some protection against cancer of the womb
It gives some protection against pelvic inflammatory disease
It is a good method if you cannot use oestrogens (hormones), like those in the combined pill
Why shouldn't I take it?
Your periods may change, in some cases they stop altogether, it's not dangerous but some people prefer the comfort of having a regular period
Spotting may continue for some months after you stop the injections
Women may put on weight when they use Depo-Provera (but this is usually only common in women who already have a weight problem)
Some women report having headaches, abdominal pain or discomfort, dizziness, spotty skin, tender breasts, bloating, and changes in mood and sex drive
The injection works for 12 or 8 weeks, depending on which type you have. It cannot be removed from your body, so if you have any side effects, you have to be prepared for them to continue during this time and for some time afterwards
Your periods, and fertility, may take a few months to return after stopping Depo-Provera injections. Sometimes it can take more than a year for your periods and fertility to get back to normal so it's not a great option if your thinking about having kids in the near future
Contraceptive injections do not protect you against sexually transmitted infections, so you may have to use condoms as well.
It's effects bone mass so if you are under 19-years-old (when your bones are still forming) or are at risk from oestoporosis you should consult your doctor because Depo-Provera affects your natural estrogen levels, causing thinning of the bones. For most women this isn't a problem as the bone replaces itself when you stop the injection
For further information visit www.fpa.org.uk
