Femiject, a once-a-month combined injectable contraceptive: experience from Pakistan

Abstract

Objectives The aims of the study were to compare the 12 month continuation rate, level of satisfaction and bleeding patterns of a once-a-month combined injectable contraceptive (CIC; Femiject), a 3 monthly progestogen-only injectable contraceptive (depot medroxyprogesterone acetate [DMPA]) and combined oral contraceptives (COCs). Methods A prospective observational study was conducted at Aziz Medical Centre, Karachi, Pakistan. The study comprised 171 married women aged 19–35 years and requesting contraception. Participants were offered injectable contraceptives or COCs and evaluated twice: once at the beginning of the study and again after 12 months, or earlier if they discontinued use. Results Sixty (35.1%) women chose COCs, 53 (31.0%) chose DMPA and 58 (33.9%) chose the CIC. The continuation rate was higher among CIC users (p = .034). CIC users were more satisfied with their method compared with those who chose COCs or DMPA (63.8% vs 25.0% and 28.3%, respectively). Most CIC users said they were likely or very likely to use the method again (63.8%); only 25.9% said they would not recommend it to a friend. CIC users had, however, more spotting compared with COC users (60.3% vs 3.3%; p ˂ .001). Conclusion As the continuation rate, level of satisfaction and bleeding profile of CIC users was promising, increased uptake should be encouraged. Our study shows that CIC is a good option for women requesting contraception.