Injectable contraceptives: underused and undervalued?
Injectable progestogen-only contraceptives can be considered for the woman who is unwilling or unable to use oral contraceptives or an IUD. They have a very low failure rate. They appear to have few serious life-threatening side-effects. The woman does not have to remember to take a daily pill. The method requires little compliance from the client and is independent of patient error. Short-term uses include for partners of men undergoing vasectomy, women being immunised against rubella and for women awaiting sterilisation. Noristerat can be used immediately after an abortion or birth of a baby. Breast feeding is not inhibited. Main side-effects are menstrual irregularities and delayed return of fertility after use. It is essential that women are counselled about the method and its side-effects before injectable contraceptives are given.