THE BIRTH CONTROL INJECTION
ONE SHOT TO COVER YOU FOR UP TO THREE MONTHS.
IT JUST TAKES A MOMENT
The birth control injection is a shot of hormones – either a progestin alone, or a progestin and estrogen – that stop the ovaries from releasing eggs and thicken the cervical mucus to make it harder for sperm to move. It works much in the same way as other hormonal birth control methods, such as the pill, except one shot will have an effect for one to three months, depending on the type. This means, however, that its effects are not reversible once it has been administered.
Once you have decided that the birth control injection is right for you, your doctor or nurse will administer it. All you have to do is remember to return on time to get the next shot – either every month, every two months or every three months – to make sure the injection is at its most effective. If and when you want to return to fertility, it’s worth consulting your doctor or nurse as it may be some time before you can get pregnant.
HOW IT MEASURES UP
HORMONES
Yes. The birth control injection contains hormones that are released throughout the entire body.
EASE OF USE
The birth control injection is effective for up to three months, but it’s important to get the shot on time to maintain its efficacy.
YOUR PERIOD
The birth control injection may cause irregular bleeding. In some cases it may cause shorter, lighter periods, or no periods at all.
What if I decide to have a baby?
Depending on the type of birth control injection, it may take up to a year for fertility to return after you stop getting shots. However, the time it takes for periods and fertility to return to normal does vary from person to person.
How many birth control injections can you have?
If you are sexually active and find that this method of birth control works for you, you can continue having the injections every four, eight or 13 weeks depending on the type.
Should the repeat injections be scheduled for when period begins?
Your period should not guide the injection schedule. The birth control injection should be administered every four, eight or 13 weeks, depending on the type, but this schedule is not dependent on your period.
How long does the birth control injection last?
Depending on the injection you receive, it lasts between four, eight or 13 weeks.
Does the birth control injection cause weight gain?
One of the potential side effects of the birth control injection is weight gain.
Is there a birth control injection for my partner?
No, there are currently no approved birth control injections that work on male reproductive systems
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Start preparing for the next appointment with your doctor or nurse today!
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
8%...1
Worldwide use injections as birth control.1
Up to 5 days…2
From the start of the period, the injection is immediately effective.2
Up to
1 year
The amount of time it can take for fertility to return.
PROS
- Fairly effective in preventing pregnancy with typical use.
- Allows spontaneous sex and does not interrupt it.2,3
- No estrogen – it is an option for those who cannot use birth control containing estrogen.2
CONS
- No protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).2
- Irregular periods can happen – longer, shorter, heavier, lighter, or periods that stop altogether.2,3
- A little wait before pregnancy – after you stop the shots, it may take up to one year before you can become pregnant.2,3
References
- UN. https://www.un.org/development/desa/pd/sites/www.un.org.development.desa.pd/files/files/documents/2020/Jan/un_2019_contraceptiveusebymethod_databooklet.pdf [Accessed April 2023] Return to content
- NHS. The contraceptive injection. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-injection/#:~:text=If%20you%20have%20the%20injection,as%20condoms%2C%20for%207%20days. [Accessed April 2023]. Return to content
- MSI. The injection: everything you need to know. https://www.msichoices.org.uk/other-services/long-acting-reversible-contraception/the-injection/ [Accessed April 2023] Return to content
Is It Okay?
CONSIDER THIS
It’s not uncommon to be fearful about having a needle. But as the injection must be re-administered monthly or quarterly, this contraceptive is best for individuals who are comfortable with committing to the procedure.
