How it works

This method also comes as a pill which you only need to have every 3 months.

The hormone in it:

• changes the mucus near the cervix to stop sperm getting through
• stops the fertilized egg from bedding down in the uterus

Or – you can have it as an injection, which lasts for 3 months.

The Failure Rate

Less good than combined pill, but still very good – 1% failure rate.

• It’s free.
• Doesn’t get in the way of sex.
• If you’ve had the injection, then you don’t have to take anything more for three months.

• You have to remember to take the damn thing (pill).
• Sometimes bleeding between your periods.
• No protection against AIDS, Chlamydia and other STIs.
• Some women don’t like taking hormones.

Family Planning Association - for details of local clinics, call the Contraceptive Education Service.

England - 0845 310 1334

Scotland - 0141 576 5088

N. Ireland - 02890 325488