Advantages and disadvantages of injectable contraceptives

Expert answer:

Injectable contraceptive is a great long-term and highly effective contraceptive option.

Benefits:

  • Method reversible: the woman's fertility comes back to stop the use of the medication;
  • Decrease in failure: the monthly or quarterly frequency avoids constant forgetfulness as evidenced in the use of the pills which, consequently, reduces the possible failures;
  • Reduced menstrual flow: may be beneficial for women who have an intense menstrual flow;
  • Reducing the risk of endometrial cancer;
  • Decreased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease.

Disadvantages:

  • Menstrual changes: especially at the beginning, the woman may present with unscheduled bleeding and leakage throughout the menstrual cycle;
  • Amenorrhea: the fact that there is no menstrual bleeding once a month may raise concerns in some women who identify menstruation as a safety signal of the contraceptive method;
  • Non-prevention of sexually transmitted diseases;
  • Headache;
  • Mood changes;
  • Reduction of bone density (reversible effect upon cessation of use);
  • Other less frequent disadvantages: dizziness, swelling and reduced libido.

The decision to initiate the use of injectable contraceptives should be made by the woman considering her personal and family history, as well as some lifestyle habits such as smoking. An appointment with the gynecologist, family doctor or general practitioner can resolve doubts, weigh the advantages and disadvantages, and evaluate the most appropriate method of contraception in your case.