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How do injectable contraceptives work?
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Injectables prevent pregnancy through the following ways:
- Stop ovulation in about half of the menstrual cycles. (this is not clear)
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Thicken cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to pass.
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Inhibit the movement of fallopian tube cilia, which decreases sperm movement.
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Change the endometrium which decreases the possibility of egg implantation.
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Where is the injection given?
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The contraceptive injection must be given by a trained provider, preferably at a health facility. It should be taken intramuscularly, in the upper portion of the buttocks or in the upper arm.
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Are there any side effects contributed to injectable contraceptives?
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Injectables are expected to cause some minor side effects that a woman can usually tolerate easily, especially during the first few months. These include changes in menstrual bleeding (spotting or bleeding in between periods, amenorrhea (missed periods), irregular cycles), headache, breast tenderness, dizziness, nausea , mood changes, changes in sexual desire, and weight changes. However, if the woman faces any of the following warning signs, she should seek medical assistance immediately:
Severe pain in the abdomen, chest, or legs.
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Severe headache, dizziness, weakness, or numbness.
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Yellowing of the skin or eyes (Jaundice).
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Pus or prolonged pain at the injection site.
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Heavy vaginal bleeding (with combined injectables).
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Vision loss or blurred vision (with progestin-only injectables).
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When should a woman using injectables return to normal fertility?
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The effects of combined injectables are rapidly reversible following discontinuation. The injected hormones are cleared from the body within 60-90 days from the last injection date and ovulation can take place any day starting day 63 from last injection. However, progestin only injectables might delay return to fertility from 6 months to one year from discontinuation.
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Should I give my body a break from using contraceptive injectables every few years or so?
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No, it is not necessary as the hormones do not build up in your body. There are no health benefits to taking a break; however if you stop using the injections without using another effective method, you increase your risk of becoming pregnant.
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Does amenorrhea mean I am pregnant?
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Amenorrhea is a possible signal of pregancy for progestin-only contraceptives, however it is unlikely, especially if you are not having any other pregnancy symptoms. If you are using combined injectables and didn’t get your shots on time, you may be pregnant, so it is important to visit your health care provider and take a pregnancy test.
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Is the lack of bleeding (amenorrhea) harmful?
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A woman’s health will not be harmed if she does not have her monthly period while using a progestin only contraceptive, such as progestin only injections, implants or POPs. The blood does not accumulate in her body at all; she does not bleed simply because ovulation does not occur.
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How frequently should I take the injection?
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It depends on the type of injection you are using; Some require the shot to be taken 20 days, others every 12 weeks. Check with your health care provider about frequence of injections. |
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