Ready or Not? by Tina Radziszewicz

Author:Tina Radziszewicz
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc
Published: 2009-11-15T00:00:00+00:00

Contraceptive Injections

What Are They and How Do They Work?

There are two types of contraceptive injection: Depo-Provera, the most common, and Lunelle, which is newer and used less frequently. Depo-Provera protects you from pregnancy for twelve weeks, Lunelle for one month. Both work by stopping the release of your monthly egg, thinning your womb lining, and thickening the mucus at the entrance to your womb. Both contain a man-made version of the hormone progesterone. Lunelle also contains estrogen, as in a combination pill. They don't protect against STDs, so condoms should be used as well.

How Effective Are Contraceptive Injections at Preventing Pregnancy?

Over 99 percent.

What Makes Contraceptive Injections Less Effective at Preventing Pregnancy?

Not getting your next injection on time or taking medicine that interferes with the injection. Medicines you buy over the counter at the pharmacy won't affect it, but some prescribed ones may (this doesn't include antibiotics). Ask the doctor who gives you your injections for a list of medications.

Advantages

* There are no serious health risks for Depo-Provera because the injections don't contain estrogen, so they're suitable for smokers.

* They don't interfere with sex.

* You don't have to think about contraception for the duration of the injection.

* The injection isn't absorbed by the stomach like the pill, so its effectiveness isn't affected by vomiting and diarrhea.

* They give some protection against uterine cancer and pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).

* Depo-Provera can be used by girls who can't take estrogen, which is in the combination pill.

Disadvantages

* Most people's periods change. They can be irregular and longer than usual, may stop completely, or you may bleed often, though your periods will be light. You might bleed irregularly for a few months after if you stop the injections.

* Possible side effects include weight gain, headaches, acne, sore boobs, mood swings, and bloating.

* As the injection works for four or twelve weeks, it can't be removed from your body, so if you get side effects, they may go on for as long as the injection lasts and for some time afterward. Lunelle works for a shorter time, so if you experience side effects, you can stop using it sooner.

* Your periods and fertility (ability to conceive a baby) can take up to a year to return to normal after you've stopped the injections.

* Injections don't protect against STDs, so you still need to use condoms.

* Medical conditions that mean you can't have the contraceptive injection are the same as for the mini-pill.

Using Contraceptive Injections

The hormone is injected into a muscle, usually in your bottom. You can get the injection any time from the first day of your period to the fifth day and be protected against pregnancy immediately.

Where Can I Get a Contraceptive Injection?

It has to be given by a nurse or doctor.

Any Other Considerations?

Contraceptive injections aren't suitable if you've had severe depression or if you don't want your periods to change.

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