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Contraceptive injection

The contraceptive injection is a method of contraception.

The contraceptive injection contains 1 hormone. This hormone prevents ovulation. It also makes it more difficult for sperm cells to enter the uterus and prevents implantation of an egg cell.

Contraceptive injection

How does the contraceptive injection work?

The injection works for 3 months. It is used in the following way:

  • During the first 5 days of your cycle, your doctor, gynaecologist or nurse gives you an injection in your upper arm or buttocks.
  • Then you have to go to the family doctor/healthcare provider every 3 months (12 weeks) for a new injection.

Doctor giving a contraceptive injection in a woman’s buttocks or upper arm.

Reliable

The contraceptive injection is reliable if you have a new injection every 3 months. 

Reliable

No damage to your health

The contraceptive injection contains 1 hormone. This hormone does not generally affect your health. However, in some cases it is better to choose a different method of contraception. Ask a doctor for advice. 

The injection does not make you less fertile. If you want to get pregnant, you simply stop having the injection. It can, however, take a few months, or up to a year, for your cycle to return to normal.

The contraceptive injection can cause side-effects such as headache, irregular menstruation and tender breasts. Consult a doctor if the side-effects are severe.

Your menstruation can become less heavy and often stop altogether.

No protection against STIs and HIV

The contraceptive injection does not protect against STIs or HIV. Only a condom can protect you.

Condom

Buying the contraceptive injection

The contraceptive injection costs about €15 per injection. This includes the administering of the injection by a doctor/healthcare provider. Every 3 months you need to go to your doctor or health provider for a new injection.

What does it cost?

Until the age of 21, most forms of contraception are reimbursed by your health insurance. However, you first have to pay the excess (eigen risico) of your health insurance policy. Check with your health insurance provider to find out how much will be reimbursed. From the age of 21, contraception is only reimbursed if you have taken out additional insurance for contraception. 

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About Zanzu

Zanzu was developed by Sensoa and BZgA. Rutgers, the Dutch expertise centre for sexual health and rights, has adapted Zanzu for use in the Netherlands.