TABLE.

A Comparison Between DMPA-SC and DMPA-IM Injectables

CharacteristicDMPA-SCDMPA-IM
Formulation104 mg/0.65 mL of DMPA in the Uniject injection system; all-in-one Uniject system simplifies procurement and logistics150 mg/mL of DMPA, administered by intramuscular injection, available in vials or prefilled syringes
Needle3/8” needle; 23 gauge ultra-thin1” needle; 22 gauge with a 21–23 gauge range option
AdministrationWhere permitted, can be administered by CHWs, pharmacists, or by the woman herselfTypically administered by a provider, but can be administered by CHWs and pharmacists where permitted
Shelf life3 years5 years
Efficacy99% contraceptive efficacy
SafetySimilar safety profile
Duration and mechanism of actionProvides 3 months of contraceptive protection per dose by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus
Safety during breastfeedingSafe for breastfeeding mothers at 6 weeks postpartum
Health benefits

  • Reduces the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer

  • Protects from uterine fibroids, endometrial cancer, ectopic pregnancy, and symptomatic pelvic inflammatory disease

  • May reduce sickle cell crises in some women with sickle cell anemia

  • Prevents seizures in some women with epilepsy

  • Prevents iron deficiency anemia in some women

Side effectsMay cause headaches, bleeding irregularities, weight gain, injection-site reactions
Protection against HIV or other STIsDoes not protect against HIV or other STIs

  • Abbreviations: CHW, community health worker; DMPA, depot medroxyprogesterone acetate; DMPA-IM, intramuscular DMPA; DMPA-SC, subcutaneous DMPA; STI, sexually transmitted infection.

  • Source: Spieler (2010)1 and Family Health International (2010).9