Women’s and Providers’ Experiences with Injectable Contraceptives (Depo-Provera): A View from Vadodara, India

Abstract

Objective: To compare users’ and providers’ perspectives on injectable contraceptives (IC). Methods: This qualitative study
employed semi-structured in-depth interview technique. Sixty women with experience of using IC and 10 doctors involved
in providing IC were selected. Telephonic interviews of doctors were also conducted. Results: Over 50% of the women had
side effects and had discontinued use within 1 year. The most common ‘likes’ according to women included ease of use,
being tension free for 3 months and being effective and those of the providers were that it reduced anemia, privacy could be
maintained, noncontraceptive benefits, good substitute, not to be taken daily like pills, safe and effective. The most common
‘dislikes’ reported by providers and clients were excessive bleeding, amenorrhea, irregular periods, spotting, weight gain and
frequent pregnancy tests. Conclusion: Although certain distinct advantages of IC have been expressed, the associated problems
are equally significant and therefore IC should not be an over-the-counter contraceptive.