Depo-Provera (DMPA) is a/an:

Appeared in: DSSSB October 2024

Explanation

Depo-Provera, or Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA), is a progestin-only, long-acting hormonal contraceptive.
It is administered via an intramuscular or subcutaneous injection, typically every three months.
Its primary mechanism of action is the suppression of ovulation, along with thickening cervical mucus and thinning the endometrial lining.
The name 'Depot' signifies that the medication is deposited into the muscle or subcutaneous tissue and released slowly over time.

Option A: A subdermal implant is a small rod placed under the skin of the arm, not an injection. An example is Nexplanon.
Option C: A vaginal contraceptive diaphragm is a non-hormonal barrier method that is inserted into the vagina before intercourse to cover the cervix.
Option D: Oral contraceptive pills are taken by mouth on a daily basis. DMPA is administered as an injection every three months.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of Hormonal Contraceptives as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Patient counseling is critical when administering DMPA. Nurses must educate patients about common side effects like irregular bleeding, weight gain, and the potential for decreased bone mineral density with prolonged use (black box warning).
A key counseling point is the delayed return to fertility. It can take an average of 10 months (and up to 18 months) for ovulation to resume after the last injection, which is an important consideration for women planning future pregnancies.
Nurses must instruct patients not to massage the injection site, as this can accelerate drug absorption and shorten the duration of contraceptive effectiveness.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of different contraceptive methods.
First, identify the drug in question: Depo-Provera (DMPA).
Recall the classification and method of administration for this specific contraceptive. The name 'Depo' implies a long-acting depot formulation.
Evaluate each option based on its definition and method of administration.
Option B, 'Injectable contraceptive,' correctly describes how DMPA is administered.
Eliminate the other options: A 'subdermal implant' is placed under the skin, a 'vaginal diaphragm' is a barrier method, and an 'oral pill' is taken by mouth.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart C (pp 404-604 of 604) p. 196-198

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 78-92

Practise the full DSSSB October 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.