Make the Switch: From Depo-Provera to Sayana Press
What is Sayana Press?
Sayana Press is a contraceptive injection that contains the hormone medroxyprogesterone acetate, just like Depo-Provera. However, it offers the added benefit of self-administration, giving you more control over your contraception.
Why Choose Sayana Press?
✔ Convenience – Sayana Press can be self-administered in the comfort of your own home, saving you the time and effort of attending an appointment every three months for your injection. We will provide you with a prescription for 4 injections, giving you a whole year’s supply.
✔ Control – Take charge of your reproductive health by administering your own contraception.
✔ Privacy – Enjoy the discretion of managing your contraception privately.
✔ Support – Our practice nurses will show you how to administer Sayana Press and supervise your first injection to ensure you feel confident and comfortable.
How Does Sayana Press Work?
Sayana Press prevents pregnancy by:
✔ Preventing ovulation – Stops the release of an egg from the ovary.
✔ Thickening cervical mucus – Makes it harder for sperm to reach an egg.
✔ Thinning the uterine lining – Reduces the chance of a fertilised egg implanting.
How to Use Sayana Press
1. Preparation: Ensure you have:
- Sayana Press injector
- Clean cotton wool, tissue, or antiseptic wipe
- A container for the used injector
2. Injection Site:
- Choose an area on your abdomen (tummy) or upper front thigh
- Avoid scars or irritated skin
3. Clean the Area:
- Wash your hands thoroughly
- Clean the injection site with water or an antiseptic wipe
4. Inject:
- Remove Sayana Press from its package and inspect it
- Inject yourself following the instructions provided by our practice nurses
5. Disposal:
- Dispose of the used injector in a sharps container, which we will provide
When to Use Sayana Press
✔ Switching from Depo-Provera – You can use Sayana Press when your next Depo-Provera injection is due and will have full contraceptive cover.
✔ First-time use:
- If your first injection is within the first 5 days of your period, you are protected immediately.
- If your first injection is more than 5 days after the start of your period, use additional contraception (e.g., condoms) for the first 7 days.
Possible Side Effects
As Sayana Press and Depo-Provera contain the same active ingredient, they share similar side effects, including:
✔ Weight gain
✔ Headaches
✔ Mood changes
✔ Irregular bleeding or spotting
✔ Injection site reactions (redness, itchiness, swelling)
Important Reminders
✔ Receive your injection every 13 weeks – If you are late, contact our healthcare provider for advice.
✔ Bone health matters – Maintain a balanced diet rich in calcium, do regular weight-bearing exercise, and avoid excessive alcohol and smoking.
✔ Thinking about pregnancy? – If you plan to conceive, stop using Sayana Press. Fertility return times can vary from a few months to a year, just like Depo-Provera.
Speak to Our Nurses
If you would like to discuss Sayana Press or make the switch from Depo-Provera, please contact the surgery to book an appointment with our Practice Nurses, Louise or Sarah.