Combined injectable contraceptive in the context of "Progestogen-only injectable contraceptive"

Combined hormonal contraception (CHC), or combined birth control, is a form of hormonal contraception which combines both an estrogen and a progestogen in varying formulations.

The different types available include the pill, the patch and the vaginal ring, which are all widely available, and an injection, which is available in only some countries. They work by mainly suppressing luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and in turn preventing ovulation.

Progestogen-only injectable contraceptives (POICs) are a form of hormonal contraception and progestogen-only contraception that are administered by injection and providing long-lasting birth control. As opposed to combined injectable contraceptives, they contain only a progestogen without an estrogen, and include two progestin preparations:

• Medroxyprogesterone acetate (brand names Depo-Provera, Provera, Depo-subQ Provera 104) – 150 mg (intramuscularly) or 104 mg (subcutaneously) every 3 months
• Norethisterone enanthate (brand names NET EN, Noristerat, Norigest, Doryxas) – 200 mg (intramuscularly) every 2 months