3-month injection (Progestin-only Injection)

It is a clear liquid that contains one hormone - a progestin - like the natural hormone progesterone in a woman’s body. The liquid is injected into the muscle on a woman’s upper arm, hip, or buttock after which the hormone is released slowly into the bloodstream. Examples: Depo-Provera, Femiplan, NET-EN

How does it work?
Mainly by preventing the release of eggs from a woman’s ovaries (ovulation), but the eggs stay healthy inside the body until the woman is ready to get pregnant. One injection protects a woman from pregnancy for 3 months. The woman must always get her next injection on time and not miss any injection.
Is it effective?
If used correctly and consistently, the chances of becoming pregnant when using a 3-month injection are less than 1 pregnancy per 100 women (less than 1%).
Advantages?
• Nearly 100% effective when used correctly
• Very private; no one else can tell that a woman is using contraception
• Can be started without blood tests, pelvic exam, cancer screening or breast examination.
• Does not require daily action; one injection every 3 months.
• Can help to protect against endometrial cancer, uterine fibroids and iron-deficiency anemia.
• Can reduce sickle cell crises among women with sickle cell anemia.
Common side effects / limitations?
• Pregnancy may be delayed by 1 - 4 months or more after discontinuation
• Changes in bleeding patterns e.g. irregular bleeding, prolonged bleeding, or no monthly bleeding (but this is not harmful to the woman’s health)
• Headaches & dizziness.
• Weight gain
• Mood changes or changes in sex drive.
• Abdominal bloating or discomfort.
• Possible decrease in bone density.
• Can only be stopped once the 3 months are over
• Do not protect from STIs including HIV / AIDs
3-month injections DO NOT:
• Disrupt an existing pregnancy – they cannot cause an abortion
• Cause birth defects or multiple births
• Make a woman infertile or cause menopause. There may be a delay in regaining fertility, but in time the woman will be able to become pregnant as before.
• Cause blood to build up in a woman’s body if she stops getting monthly periods