Frequency of menstrual disorders with depot medroxy progesterone acetate [DMPA] as contraceptive

ABSTRACT

Increasing population growth rate in developing countries like Pakistan is a major problem requiring fertility control. The introduction of injectable hormonal contraceptives has increased the number of women practicing contraception and compliance as well. To assess the frequency of menstrual disorders with depot medroxy progesterone acetate. This descriptive study was carried out in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Unit I, in collaboration with Reproductive Health Services, Master Training Centre, Nishtar Hospital Multan during the period from July 2005 to December 2006. One hundred and fifty non-pregnant women of reproductive age were selected and after complete history, examination and investigations, all women suitable for DPMA were included. In our Study the main complaint was menstrual disturbance. More than one fifth of the clients i.e. 32 [21%] enjoyed normal menstrual patterns. Sixty two [41%] ladies developed amenorrhoea by the end of one year. Seventeen [12%] cases complained of irregular vaginal bleeding and 39 [26%] had heavy regular periods. One hundred and thirty three [89%] patients revealed complete satisfaction with the product while 17 [11%] complained about discomfort due to menstrual problems. Out of these seventeen, nine discontinued as menstrual irregularities had handicapped their life so there were 141 [94%] patients who continued while 6% discontinued. Despite bleeding disturbances caused by DPMA, high continuation rates showed that this contraceptive method is acceptable to women