Few published data exist on the ongoing use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, the injectable contraceptive. Women who obtained the injectable from Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains between January 1993 and March 1995 were followed to ascertain continuation rates for the method. Of the 5,178 women who received an initial injection, only 57% returned for a second administration; 63% of those who returned for their second injection went on to receive a third. The overall one-year continuation rate was 23%. No significant differences in continuation rates were found based on age, race or payment type.
PIP: Women acquire 3 months of contraceptive protection with each injection of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA). Women who obtained DMPA from Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains between January 1993 and March 1995 were followed to determine the continuation rates for use of the method. 79% of the 5178 women who received an initial injection are White, 64% were older than 22 years, and 10% were reimbursed for services through Medicaid. 57% of the 5178 women returned for a second administration. 63% of women who returned for a second injection continued method use to receive a third injection. The mean time between injections was 84 days, with a standard deviation of 6 days. The study found a 23% overall 1-year continuation rate. No significant differences in continuation rates were found according to age, race, or payment type. Difficulty tolerating side effects was the main reason for DMPA discontinuation among the 200 women who were followed upon discontinuing method use after the first injection. 12% of the sample was reported as lost to follow-up. Findings are discussed.