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Self-Inject
Contraceptive
- 3 months of safe and reversible protection.
- Privately and discreetly inject yourself.
- Choose your time and place for injection.
Choose where to start
Get Self-inject near you
Use our provider & pharmacy locator tool
Need some advice?
Speak to an expert
My control over my time and body has improved since I started using the Self-Inject Contraceptive.
- Verified Self-Inject User
Why Use Self-inject Contraceptive?
3 months of contraceptive protection
It’s private and discreet
99% effective with typical use
Small needle with little to no pain
Comfortably use it at your own time and place
Please consult your local healthcare provider for training before using self-inject.
Thanks to the Self-Inject Contraceptive, I can now travel anywhere knowing Self-Inject can protect me from unplanned pregnancy.
- Verified Self-Inject User
How It Works
A Step-by-Step guide on how to use the self-inject contraceptive
Watch this video to learn how to self-administer the self-inject contraceptive.
Limitless Care.
Unstoppable Women.
Contraceptive Self-Injection Guide
Wash hands
- Use soap and water.
- Shake hands in air to dry.
Open pouch
- Open pouch and remove device.
- Do not bend device.
Mix solution and check device
- Hold device by the port and shake until mixed (about 30 seconds).
- Check to ensure no damage or leaking.
- If you do not inject right away, shake and mix again.
Activate device by closing the gap
- Hold device by port.
- Point needle upward to prevent dripping.
- Push cap firmly into port.
- If gap is not fully closed, you will not be able to press reservoir for injection.
Remove the needle cap
- Remove needle cap.
- Do not put needle cap back on.
- Throw cap in trash.
Gently pinch skin and insert needle
- Pinch skin to create a 'tent'.
- Hold device by the port and insert needle straight into skin at a downward angle.
- The port should touch skin completely to ensure needle is inserted at correct depth.
Press the reservoir slowly
- Press reservoir slowly for 5 to 7 seconds.
- It is OK if there is some liquid left in the reservoir.
Remove the needle
- Remove the needle, then let go of the skin 'tent'.
- Do not rub injection site.
Discard the device
- Immediately discard device in puncture-proof container.
- Put on the container lid.
- Give it to VIYA Health to be discarded.
Plan for your next injection
- Use a calendar to count 3 months to your next injection date.
- Write that injection date on your injection card.
Where to Inject?
Abdomen
Inject in the front of the abdomen. Avoid the navel.
Anterior Thigh
Inject in the front of the upper thigh.
Rotation Tips
- Use a different site for each injection to keep your skin healthy.
- Alternate between left/right sides or between abdomen and thigh.
Sites to Avoid
- Do not inject into the navel (belly button).
- Do not inject into bony areas, scars, or moles.
- Avoid skin that is red, bruised, or irritated.
Missed your date?
Within the Safe Window
- You can still give yourself an injection.
- You are still protected against pregnancy.
- Write the actual injection date on your card.
- Count 3 months from the actual date for the next one.
More than 1 month after
- DO NOT give yourself the injection.
- Contact VIYA Health immediately.
- Use condoms or avoid sex until you speak with us.
Common Side Effects
Usually not a cause for concern:
- Lack of monthly bleeding
- Heavy or irregular bleeding
- Headaches
- Changes in mood or sex drive
- Weight gain
- Abdominal pain
Important Info
No STI Protection This contraceptive does not protect against HIV or other STIs. Use condoms for protection.
Storage Keep in a safe place away from children, animals, and extreme heat or cold.
Self-Inject helps me protect myself from unplanned pregnancy and stay focused on my dreams.
- Verified Self-Inject User
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Everything you need to know about the Self-Inject Contraceptive
I’m scared to inject myself – can I get training from a provider?
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.
How do I know if I have injected properly at home?
If you followed the instructions and the reservoir (the squeezy part of the device) is completely empty and deflated, you have successfully given yourself the dose. It is completely normal to see a tiny drop of medication or a small speck of blood on your skin afterward—this does not mean the injection failed. As long as you held the device in place while squeezing for the full 5-7 seconds and the reservoir is flat, you have done it correctly.
Why am I having prolonged periods after using self-inject?
It is normal for hormonal methods such as DMPA-SC to change users’ menstrual cycles, and women’s experiences with this will vary. If your experience of menstrual side effects has been negative, consult with a medical professional and consider switching methods.
How long does it take to return to fertility after using SI?
On average, fertility returns 10 months after the last injection date, but the range is 4-12 months.
Is this contraceptive safe for older women?
Yes. DMPA-SC is safe for women of reproductive age, including older women. However, you should check whether you have underlying health conditions that could make use less safe.
Is this contraceptive safe for women who have not given birth?
Yes. DMPA-SC is equally suitable for mothers and women who have not yet given birth.
Why am I having vaginal infection?
There could be many reasons for this, and it is best to seek medical attention promptly for an accurate diagnosis. DMPA-SC is not known to cause vaginal infections, but it also does not protect one against STIs. Contact your medical provider if symptoms persist.
Join hundreds of thousands of women...... in taking charge of their reproductive health
Be part of a growing movement of more than 450,000 Kenyan girls and women who have chosen freedom, confidence, and control. See how we’ve supported thousands of women on their personal journeys. Watch their stories.
Bukenya and Racheal
- Verified Self-Inject Users
“[Self-inject] has given us time to develop our family gradually.”
Teopista
- Verified Self-Inject Users
“Previously I would have given birth after every one year.”
Nalongo & Salongo
- Verified Self-Inject Users
“You can administer [Self-inject] … without needing the help of a health care provider.”
Tusiime Shakira
- Verified Self-Inject User
“When I go somewhere, I can move with my self inject in my bag.”
Batenga Jane
- Verified Self-Inject Users
“[Self-inject] has no side effects that can affect your business life.”
Mariam Nakiganda
- Verified Self-Inject User
“I used [self-inject] when I was in a [previous] relationship [and] it helped me … to protect myself.”
Tusiime Esther
- Verified Self-Inject User
“I changed to self-inject because I found [contraceptive] pills expensive.”
Birungi Mutebi
- Verified Self-Inject User
“I don’t have to … frequent the clinic, therefore I’m able to spend more time on my business”
Get the care you deserve
Find a Healthcare Facility Near You
VIYA is dedicated to improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency. By offering a centralized, comprehensive directory of healthcare facilities, we aim to enhance the overall healthcare experience for individuals and communities.
For Self-Inject VIYA Health Kenya is partnered with:
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