Contraceptive injections
This method is also known as “injectable contraception”.
Composition : Highly effective, reversible method containing only progestin. Injected four times a year, it’s an ideal method for people who find it difficult to follow a daily, weekly or monthly routine.
Efficiency: 94% in typical use, 99.7% in perfect use
Cost: Approximately $45 for 3 months. Prices may vary by location.
How it works:
- Thickens cervical mucus to block sperm access to the ovum
- Thins the endometrium, making it difficult for the egg to implant.
Directions for use : The injection is administered by a‧e healthcare professional‧levery 12 weeks. It is usually performed in the upper arm or buttocks.
Where can I buy it? A prescription is required to use this method of contraception. Consult your doctor, pharmacist‧ne, CLSC, medical clinic or S.O.S. Pregnancy nurse for a prescription. The injection must be performed by a‧e nurse‧ère, usually at the CLSC. Certain‧e‧s school nurses‧ère‧s can also prescribe this contraceptive.
Benefits
- Need to be injected only 4 times a year, without a daily routine
- May lead to cessation of menstruation for more than 50% of users‧rice‧s after the first year and more than 66% after the second year
- Reduces menstrual cramps, the risk of endometrial cancer, and the frequency of convulsions in epileptics
- Can also relieve symptoms of endometriosis, PMS and chronic pelvic pain
- Suitable for women who cannot take estrogen, who are breast-feeding, or who are over 35 and smoke
Disadvantages
- Initially, irregular bleeding is frequent.
- May cause a decrease in bone mineral density, which may normalize once injections are stopped
- May result in an average weight gain of 5.4 lbs after one year
- Wait 6 to 10 months after the last injection for the ovaries to start producing eggs again.
- Injection must be administered by a‧e healthcare professional‧le
FAQ
Is the contraceptive injection effective from the first day of use?
It is advisable to wait 7 days for the contraceptive injection to be fully effective. During this time, use another method of contraception, such as a condom.
What to do if there is bleeding between periods?
Bleeding between periods (spotting) does not affect the efficacy of the contraceptive injection. If you have any concerns, consult a‧e healthcare professional‧le.
Is it true that it can take several months to become pregnant after stopping the contraceptive injection?
Yes, it’s advisable to alternate application areas to avoid skin irritation, limiting yourself to the arm, shoulder blade, lower abdomen or lower back.
Is it possible for the contraceptive patch to peel off the skin?
On average, it takes 6 to 9 months after the last injection to return to a full menstrual cycle and conceive.
Sources: Ça se planifie. A guide to choosing the right contraception, on The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC). Available at: https: //www.caseplanifie.ca/ (consulted on 08-2024).
