Factors affecting continuation rates of DMPA

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Family Planning
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a widely used injectable contraceptive.
• Understanding factors influencing DMPA continuation is crucial for effective family planning programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate continuation rates of DMPA among new acceptors.
• To identify sociodemographic and service-related factors associated with DMPA use duration.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of 430 new DMPA acceptors followed for up to 13 months.
• Continuation defined as return to the clinic within 104 days of the last injection.
• Bivariate analysis and proportional hazards regression used to identify influencing factors.

Main Results:

• 12-month continuation rate was 51%.
• Women advised to return for side effects were 2.7 times more likely to continue DMPA.
• Women informed about amenorrhea were 2.5 times more likely to continue DMPA.
• Other factors included number of children, attitude toward menstruation, lactation status, and spousal input.

Conclusions:

• Healthcare provider counseling is vital for improving DMPA continuation rates.
• Providing comprehensive information on efficacy, side effects, and amenorrhea enhances method adherence.