EVALUATING THE FEASIBILITY OF INJECTABLE DEPOT MEDROXYPROGESTERONE ACETATE AS CONTRACEPTION IN A TERTIARY CARE
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Keywords
Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate; Injectable contraception; Feasibility study; Menstrual irregularities; Continuation rate; Family planning
Abstract
Background: Injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a long-acting, reversible, progestin-only contraceptive that offers an effective spacing option for women seeking a user-independent method. Its feasibility in routine clinical settings depends on acceptance, continuation, safety, and user satisfaction.
Objectives: To evaluate the feasibility of injectable DMPA as a contraceptive method in terms of acceptance, continuation, side effects, and overall safety among women attending a tertiary care center.
Methods: A Prospective and retrospective observational study was conducted at the School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, from January 2024 to December 2025. A total of 100 women aged 18–45 years opting for injectable contraception were enrolled. Participants received depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and were followed up at scheduled intervals. Data on demographic characteristics, continuation rates, menstrual pattern changes, adverse effects, and weight changes were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 27.0 and GraphPad Prism version 5. Descriptive statistics were used, and appropriate inferential tests were applied, with a p-value ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: All participants accepted DMPA at initiation. Continuation rates were 86% at 3 months and 72% at 6 months. Menstrual irregularities were the most common side effects, with amenorrhea observed in 39% and irregular bleeding in 40% of participants at 6 months (p < 0.001). A modest but statistically significant increase in mean body weight was noted (p = 0.032). No serious adverse events were reported. Younger women demonstrated significantly higher continuation rates compared to older women.
Conclusion: Injectable DMPA is a feasible, safe, and acceptable contraceptive method with satisfactory continuation rates. Adequate counseling and follow-up are essential to optimize adherence and user satisfaction.
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Dr namita Bajpai
Assistant professor School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University greater noida
Dr Mayuri Ahuja
Associate professor School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, greater noida
Dr Archana mehta
Professor School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University, greater noida
Dr shelly Agarwal
professor School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University , greater noida
Dr gita
postgraduate School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University , greater noida
Dr kritika gupta
postgraduate, School of Medical Sciences and Research, Sharda University , greater Noida
