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 UnijectTM, 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.