The convenience of injectable contraceptives

In this day and age when women have become more active and busy with their professional and personal lives, injectable contraceptives may just be their most convenient family planning method, requiring only one shot for a three-month long protection from pregnancy.

The injectable is a long-term hormonal family planning method given to a woman to prevent ovulation. It is administered by a health provider within the first five days of her menstrual cycle.

Once a shot is given, pregnancy is prevented up to three months. The injectable works in three ways: it suppresses ovulation, or the release of an egg every month; it thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for the sperm to enter the uterus; and it thins the uterine lining, making it unlikely for the egg to implant.

The injectable is safe to use even among breastfeeding mothers. This method does not affect the newborn baby nor interfere with the quality and quantity of the mother’s milk.

Mothers can start using the injectable as early as six weeks after the delivery.

Other non-contraceptive benefits of the injectable include helping prevent iron deficiency anemia, some forms of pelvic inflammatory diseases, and ectopic pregnancies.

Amenorrhea, or the absence of menstruation, is a normal and positive effect of using the injectable. Since the uterine lining remains thin while using the injectable, menstruation or the shedding of lining does not occur.

The absence of menstruation provides women the freedom from the inconveniences brought about by menstruation such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), frequent change of sanitary pads, and worries of menstrual stains.

And because the injectable gives an uninterrupted three months of protection, couples enjoy the full pleasures of intercourse without the worries of unplanned pregnancies.

The injectable is an affordable contraceptive method as it is administered only once every three months. Each injectable costs between only P65 and P90. The additional cost charged for administering the injection varies depending on the health provider.

The Trust Family Program makes safe, effective, and affordable contraceptive products such as injectables, pills, and condoms. Couples have to consult a health provider before using any family planning method.

The Trust Family Program products are available in leading drugstores, POPSHOP outlets, and health clinics nationwide.

For more information, call (02) 6333-TFP or (02) 6333-837, or text (0917) 823-1111. For health providers and pharmacies that want to order injectables from the Trust Family Program, call (02) 637-7673 or (02) 632-7593.