Depo Provera: a profile of current users.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Contraception
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Depo-Medroxy-Progesterone-Acetate (Depo-Provera) is a long-acting injectable contraceptive.
• Understanding user profiles is crucial for effective family planning services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize current users of Depo-Provera at a specific clinic.
• To identify reasons for choosing Depo-Provera over other contraceptive methods.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of patient records.
• Data collected from current Depo-Provera users between April and June 1987.
• Analysis of client demographics and contraceptive history.

Main Results:

• Users were of average intelligence and well-informed about contraception.
• Many users had previously tried other contraceptive methods.
• A significant number of users had experienced unplanned pregnancies.
• Depo-Provera was chosen due to the unsuitability of alternative methods.

Conclusions:

• Depo-Provera serves a specific population with unmet contraceptive needs.
• Client education and counseling regarding contraceptive options are important.
• Further research could explore long-term user satisfaction and outcomes.