Contraception FAQs

Yes, absolutely! You do not have to figure this out alone. Healthcare providers (like nurses, doctors, or staff at a family planning clinic) expect this question and are fully prepared to help. You can schedule an appointment for them to walk you through the process, demonstrate how the device works, and supervise your first injection. Having a professional guide you step-by-step is the best way to build your confidence.

Self-inject is available at most family planning clinics. A clinic locator tool on our website can guide you to the nearest facility viyahealth.co.ke/get-care/self-inject/geo-locator/

It is free if accessed through a public provider.

Depo-Provera© is the Pfizer brand name of the intra-muscularly (IM) injectable form of the hormonal contraceptive Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA). There are currently two injectable contraceptive products that both contain DMPA. In addition to DMPA-IM, which can only be injected by a healthcare provider, there is sub-cutaneous DMPA or DMPA-SC, and this can be injected by either a provider or by oneself (self-inject) after receiving initial training. DMPA-SC is also known by its Pfizer brand name Sayana Press©. Different people use the term ‘Depo’ in different ways and it’s possible that they are referring to Depo-Provera© specifically, or more broadly to any form of Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate.

Intra-muscular injection requires the use of a standard syringe (like those used for vaccines) and it has a longer needle than sub-cutaneous injection, which only pierces the skin and does not penetrate muscular tissue. DMPA-SC uses a small ‘unit’ known as the Uniject™, which clients can use to inject themselves after initial training. Many users consider SC to be less painful than IM, although this is a subjective experience that may vary by individual. SC can be injected by either a healthcare provider or by oneself, whereas IM can only be injected by a medical professional.

Yes. This is a great option for women who would like to make less frequent visits to their provider. You can keep DMPA-SC units at home and self-inject them after you’ve received training.

The best way is to speak with a family planning provider about your preferences and needs, however, you may contact us through the form below and we will answer your questions or direct you to the appropriate vetted practitioner.