The contraceptive injection (also called Depo) is an injection of the hormone progestogen. Progestogen is similar to the hormone produced by the ovaries. The contraceptive injection is sold as Depo-Provera or Depo-Ralovera in Australia. It also thickens the fluid around the cervix (opening to the uterus/womb). This helps to prevent sperm from entering. How do I use the injection?Depo is injected by a doctor or nurse into the arm or bottom muscle every 12-14 weeks. When does it start to be effective?When Depo is first injected, or after a break, it can take up to 7 days to start working to prevent pregnancy. This depends on the timing of your menstrual cycle and if you are already using contraception. Speak with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist for more information. Where can I get the injection?Your doctor or nurse will provide a script which you can take to the pharmacy, who will sell you the Depo. You will need to return to the clinic to have the Depo injected. It will be cheaper if you have a healthcare card. What stops the injection from working?The injection might not work if you are late having your injection. What is good about the injection?
Are there any side effects from using the injection?
Other possible side effects for a small number of users can include:
These side effects often settle with time. Can the injection cause any serious health problems?There are no known serious health risks from having the contraceptive injection. Reasons why the injection might not be a good option for you:
What if I am late having the injection?If you do not want to become pregnant and it is more than 14 weeks since your last injection, you can abstain from sex or use condoms until you can have your next injection. It can take up to 7 days for Depo to start working to prevent pregnancy. During this time, you can continue to abstain from sex or use condoms. If you have unprotected sex in the time when your Depo is late or not effective, you might need emergency contraception. What happens if I get pregnant while I am using the injection?The injection is not known to harm a pregnancy. It is safe to continue the pregnancy or to have an abortion. Can I use the injection after I have had a baby?Generally, the injection can be administered straight after you give birth, even if you are breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor or nurse for more information. What if I am using the injection and I want to become pregnant?You can stop the injection at any time. It may take several months for your fertility to return. What else should I know about the injection?
You might be interested in watching: Where to get more information and support
If you are using the internet for information, only use reliable and reputable websites, such as the ones provided above. Is Depo effective right away?If you get the birth control shot (also known as Depo-Provera) within the first 7 days after the start of your period, you're protected from pregnancy immediately. Otherwise, you need to use some form of backup birth control — like a condom — whenever you have sex during the first week after getting the shot.
Is the Depo shot effective after 3 days?If you get the birth control shot within the first seven days after the start of your period, you're protected from pregnancy immediately. If you get it at any other point during your cycle, you'll need to use a backup form of birth control, like condoms, for the first seven days.
Does Depo work in 24 hours?It becomes fully effective 24 hours after the injection. Injections are given every 12 weeks by a healthcare provider. Injections can be given as early as 10 weeks or as late as 14 weeks if needed.
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