Injectable contraception delivers a dose of the progestin hormone medroxyprogesterone acetate to prevent pregnancy. The subcutaneous formulation, typically referred to as Depo-SubQ Provera 104, is designed for self-administration at home following professional instruction. This method works by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus, making it highly effective when used correctly. Individuals should only attempt self-injection after receiving comprehensive training and approval from a healthcare provider.
Necessary Supplies and Site Preparation
Gathering the correct materials and preparing the workspace is the first step. The primary item needed is the pre-filled syringe containing the injectable suspension, which is generally packaged with a small, 26-gauge needle. You will also need alcohol pads for sanitizing the injection site and a dedicated, puncture-proof sharps disposal container. Before handling these items, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 15 seconds to minimize the risk of introducing bacteria.
The subcutaneous injection is delivered into the fatty layer just beneath the skin, not deep into the muscle tissue. Suitable sites are the upper thigh or the lower abdomen, taking care to avoid the navel and waistline area. Rotate the injection site with each dose to reduce the likelihood of tissue irritation or discomfort. Once the site is selected, wipe the area firmly with an alcohol pad and allow the skin to air-dry completely before proceeding.
Administering the Injection Step-by-Step
Retrieve the pre-filled syringe from its packaging and shake it vigorously for a full minute to ensure the medication is evenly mixed. Hold the syringe vertically with the needle pointing up and gently tap the barrel to help any air bubbles rise to the top. Carefully push the plunger until all the air bubbles are expelled.
With the site clean and dry, use your non-dominant hand to gently pinch about an inch of skin and fat around the prepared area. This pinching motion separates the fatty layer from the muscle underneath. Holding the syringe in your dominant hand, insert the small needle completely into the pinched skin at a 45-degree angle.
The needle should be inserted until the plastic hub is nearly touching the skin surface, ensuring the medication reaches the correct layer. Once inserted, slowly and steadily push the plunger down to inject the entire dose of the medication. This injection should take approximately five to seven seconds to allow the suspension to absorb fully into the tissue. After the syringe is empty, keep the needle in place for a count of five before smoothly removing it at the same 45-degree angle.
Apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a cotton ball or gauze pad to manage any minor bleeding. Do not rub or massage the area, as this can affect how the medication is absorbed. If a small drop of blood appears, covering the site with a small adhesive bandage is appropriate.
Scheduling, Safe Disposal, and Next Steps
The subcutaneous shot provides continuous pregnancy protection for a 12-week interval and should be administered within a 12 to 14-week window from the previous dose. Delaying the injection beyond 14 weeks may reduce contraceptive protection, potentially requiring a pregnancy test and the use of a backup method for the following seven days. Tracking the date of each injection and setting reminders is important for maintaining consistent protection.
Immediately following the injection, the used syringe and needle must be disposed of properly into a sharps container. This container should be made of hard plastic with a tight-fitting lid. Never attempt to recap, bend, or break the used needle, and never place loose sharps in household trash or recycling bins.
When the sharps container is approximately three-quarters full, seal the lid tightly with heavy-duty tape. Disposal options for the full container vary by location, but often include pharmacy take-back programs, hospital drop-off sites, or community hazardous waste collection events. After the injection, minor side effects like localized soreness, slight bruising, or redness at the site are common and usually temporary. However, signs of infection, such as severe pain, warmth, or spreading redness, or symptoms of an allergic reaction require immediate consultation with a healthcare professional.