The Indian Government has recently chosen to introduce the injectable contraceptives called ‘depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA). Although the government has declared the safety of this injectable, few recent reports suggest the side effects of its use. The side effects may include menstrual changes, irregular bleeding, prolonged/heavy bleeding, amenorrhea (menstruation cessation), weight gain, headaches, changes in mood or sex drive, and a decrease in bone mineral density. The population explosion is a major concern in India.
But the family planning methods like injectable contraceptives may raise some health apprehensions. In this regard, the gynecologists are in a better position to predict the benefits versus risks of such methods. What are your recommendations over prescribing injectable contraceptives?
