Bleeding patterns and weight gain in users of injectable progestogen-only contraceptives: A retrospective study

Abstract

Objective: Modern contraceptive methods have been very effective in family planning and well-being. The injectable contraceptives, though effective, had been discontinued by some users because of side effects like abnormal menstrual bleeding and weight gain. This study compared the pattern of menstrual bleeding and weight gain in users of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA) and Norethisterone-Enanthate (Noristerat) in Sagamu.
 Method: A retrospective study of 323 patients who used either DMPA or Noristerat over a 7-year period (January 2007 to December 2013). Data extracted from case notes included bio-data, parity, previous contraceptive methods and reasons for discontinuation of the contraceptives. Clients' weights, pattern of menstrual cycle and side effects were also documented for the rst, second and third visits, and up to 1 year after commencing the injectable contraceptives.
 Results: The mean age of the participants was 32.72± 5.47 years. About 13.5% experienced no change in their menstrual cycle, but 55.9% and 58.9% of those who used Noristerat and DMPA respectively, had amenorrhoea by the end of one year. The mean weight was 62.89kg±12.84 for Noristerat group and 0.93kg±9.94 for DMPA group at commencement and 65.15kg±13.70 for Noristerat group and 64.05kg±10.30 for DMPA group at the end of one year. There was significant weight gain (p<0.05) in both groups by the end of the First year. Weight gain was perceived as a problem by 2% of Noristerat users and 0.9% users of DMPA.
 Conclusion: There were significant weight changes with use of injectable contraceptives. However, very few clients perceived this as a problem. Amenorrhoea was the commonest menstrual change experienced by clients over the period.