Publication:

Study of compliance of depot medroxy progesterone acetate in contraception in a tertiary care hospital

Background This study aimed to evaluate the compliance and continuity of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) as a contraceptive method and assess its side effects among women at a tertiary care institution.

Methods This prospective observational study was conducted in the obstetrics and gynecology department of a metropolitan teaching hospital, including 45 women aged 20-45 seeking temporary contraception with DMPA.

Results The majority of participants were aged 25-30 years (40%) and had a parity of two (44.4%). All participants received at least one dose, with 75.5% receiving a second dose and 42.2% completing three doses. Side effects following the first dose were observed in 24.3% of women, mainly irregular bleeding (11.1%), along with amenorrhea, weight gain, and headaches (4.4% each). Adverse effects increased to 50% in the second dose, with irregular bleeding affecting 26.4%, and 47.4% reported side effects after the third dose, primarily weight gain (21.1%) and amenorrhea (15.7%). The timing of administration showed that 36% of participants received DMPA post-abortion, 31.1% post-menstrual, and 27% transitioned from other contraceptives. Side effects peaked with the second dose, while the continuity rate declined from 75.5% after the first dose to 39% after the third.

Conclusions Despite side effects contributing to decreased continuity, DMPA remains a viable contraceptive option with proper counselling and follow-up. Further research is recommended to explore outcomes in women continuing beyond three doses for better insights into long-term compliance and side-effect management.