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What is it?

The contraceptive injection releases the hormone Progestogen into the body, which stops an egg being released from the ovaries (ovulation) to prevent pregnancy.

Depo-Provera is the contraceptive injection available in Medway. It lasts for 12 weeks and is usually given into a muscle in the bottom.

How effective is it?

The contraceptive injection is more than 99% effective at preventing unplanned pregnancy. This means that less than one woman in 100 who uses the injection will become pregnant in a year.

What are the advantages?

• Protects against pregnancy for 12 weeks
• Periods may become irregular or stop
• It does not interrupt sex
• It is not affected by other medicines
• May protect against cancer of the uterus and pelvic inflammatory disease
• Can be used while breastfeeding
• It can be useful for women who can't use contraception that contains oestrogen

What else should I know?

• It does not protect you against STIs so always use a condom
• May not be suitable for some women - a full medical history should be taken
• Regular periods and fertility may take up to a year to return after stopping the injections
• Side effects can include weight gain and headaches
• Using Depo-Provera affects your natural oestrogen levels, which can cause thinning of the bones. This isn't a problem for most women because the bone replaces itself when you stop the injection, and it doesn't appear to cause any long-term problems

It is important to have a repeat injection every 12 weeks. If you are late and have had unprotected sex you may need emergency contraception. Please seek advice from a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Where can I get the injection?

The contraceptive injection is available from all contraceptive and sexual health clinics, some student health clinics and your GP. Find your nearest services using our Find a Service page.

For more information about contraception visit www.nhs.uk/worthtalkingabout ›