Injectable
Providing 2-3 months of contraceptive protection
An effective, long-acting and reversible method of contraception
A contraceptive injectable contains a hormone that is injected into the body that stops eggs being released.
Injectables are a very effective method of contraception when used correctly.
To continue being effective, you must make sure to return for an injection every 2-3 months, otherwise you risk the chance of becoming pregnant.
The injectable is a safe, quick and easy option for women who want effective protection from unplanned pregnancy.
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How an injectable works
The injection is usually administered in the arm, thigh or buttock by a trained provider.
It only takes a few minutes to have the injection. It can take up to 7 days before the injection starts to work if you have not previously used a contraceptive injectable. You can use a condom for those 7 days.
Depending on the type of injectable given, another injection will be required in 2-3 months times to continue being an effective contraceptive method.
If you have your first injectable on day 1 to 5 of a period, it will work straight away. At any other time, extra precautions, such as condoms or abstaining from sex will be required for 7 days.
If you’ve recently had an abortion, you can have an injectable following your treatment. It will be given to you during your treatment and will work straight away. It will then last a further 12 weeks before another injection is required.
Injectable advantages
Injectables offer several advantages as a long-acting, reversible method of contraception.
- The procedure is very quick and painless
- Provide up to 12 weeks of very effective contraception
- May help with heavy periods
- These benefits come from the correct use of an injectable when administered by a trained provider
- If using an injectable, you should also make sure to follow any product manufacturer instructions.
Things to consider
When deciding if an injectable is right for you, here are a few quick facts you should consider:
- Some women may find they have spotting and bleeding for the first few weeks, but this usually settles down
- Periods may stop, but this is nothing to worry about
- Fertility may take up to a year to return after stopping
- Will not protect from STIs or HIV
- As it is an injection, if you have any symptoms, such as bleeding, you cannot reverse this method immediately.
Injectable aftercare advice.
If you have your first injectable on day 1 to 5 of a period, it will work straight away.
At any other time, extra precautions, such as condoms or abstaining from sex will be required for 7 days.
If you’ve recently had an abortion, you can have an injectable following your treatment. It will be given to you during your treatment and will work straight away. It will then last a further 12 weeks before another injection is required.
You may need to use protection for 7 days after your first injectable to prevent pregnancy.
You may need to use protection for 7 days after your first injectable to prevent pregnancy.
Find your best fit
If you’re unsure what method is best for you, take our online contraception quiz.
