Contraceptive Injection
Updated:A contraceptive injection, also known as the birth control shot or Depo-Provera, is a long-acting, reversible form of hormonal contraception. It involves injecting a synthetic form of the hormone progestogen into the body, typically in the arm or buttocks. This injection prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the uterine lining.
Additional Information
The contraceptive injection is typically administered every 12 weeks (about 3 months) by a healthcare professional. It's highly effective when used correctly, with a failure rate of less than 1% with perfect use. However, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Some advantages of the contraceptive injection include:
- Long-lasting protection
- No need to remember daily pills
- Can be used while breastfeeding
Potential side effects may include:
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Weight gain
- Temporary delay in return to fertility after stopping use
It's important to discuss the pros and cons with a healthcare provider to determine if this method is suitable for individual needs and health conditions.
Examples
Sarah chose the contraceptive injection because she often forgot to take daily pills.
Mark and his partner decided on the contraceptive injection as their preferred method of birth control due to its effectiveness and convenience.