Injectable Contraceptives
An injectable contraceptive contains the female hormone progestin and is injected into your arm or buttocks once every 12 weeks. The hormone prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs. If an egg is released, the hormone prevents sperm from fertilizing an egg. It is approximately 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Advantages:
- You only need to think about birth control once every 12 weeks.
- If you are sensitive to oestrogen you can still use it because there is only progestin in it.
- It is highly effective in preventing pregnancy.
- You may stop having your period while you are on it, and as a result not have to deal with any cramping or bleeding.
Disadvantages:
- Injectable contraception doesn’t protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- You may not be able to get pregnant for up to 2 years after you’ve stopped using it.
- Side effects can include irregular bleeding, lighter or heavier periods, shorter or longer periods, or no periods at all (which can be an advantage for some women and a disadvantage for others). If you have a history of depression this may not be the best method for you. Side effects will not necessarily go away very quickly, because the hormone is in your system for 12 weeks at a time.
- Scientists have established that there is a link between the use of injectable contraceptives and osteoporosis. A bone density test will likely be scheduled every so often by your doctor or health care provider to ensure that your bones are still strong.
- To get an injectable contraceptive, you must see a doctor.
Updated June 25, 2008