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Injectables

A contraceptive injection

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Injectables also called contraceptive injection, are shots that contain the hormone progestogen, which prevents pregnancy for 8-13 weeks.

If used correctly, the injectable is 99% effective. It’s very useful for women who find it difficult to remember to take daily contraceptive pills at the same time every day.

Injectables do not protect against HIV or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Book an appointment

If you’re ready to visit us, book an appointment to reduce your waiting time at the clinic.

Once you’ve filled out the form, a member of the team will be in touch to confirm your appointment.

How does the injectable work? 

The injectable steadily releases a progestogen hormone into your bloodstream.

The continuous release of progestogen:

  • Stops a woman from releasing an egg every month (ovulation).
  • Thickens the mucus from the cervix (neck of the womb), making it difficult for sperm to pass through to the womb and reach an unfertilised egg
  • Makes the lining of the womb thinner, so that it is unable to support a fertilised egg
  • The injectable can be given at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you are sure and have been confirmed not pregnant.

When it starts to work

You can have the injection at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you’re not pregnant.

If you have the injection during the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle, you’ll be immediately protected against becoming pregnant.

If you have the injection on any other day of your cycle, you’ll need to use additional contraception, such as condoms, for 7 days.


What are the advantages of injectables?

  • You will not have to think about pregnancy prevention for about 8-13 weeks.
  • You can use injectables any time after giving birth if you are not breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, the injectable can normally be used six weeks after giving birth.