In how many months should DMPA (Depo Medroxy Progesterone Acetate) injection be administered via IM route?

Maharashtra CHO - 2020

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Easy

Appeared in: Maharashtra CHO - 2020

Explanation

DMPA (Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) is a long-acting progestin-only injectable contraceptive.
The standard intramuscular (IM) dose is 150 mg, which provides contraceptive protection for 3 months (approximately 12-13 weeks).
Its mechanism involves suppressing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus, making it a highly effective method of birth control.
The 3-month interval is crucial for maintaining contraceptive efficacy.

Option A: An interval of one month is incorrect for DMPA. This frequency is typical for combined (estrogen and progestin) injectable contraceptives, such as Cyclofem or Mesigyna.
Option B: An interval of two months is the standard for a different progestin-only injectable, Norethisterone Enantate (NET-EN or Noristerat), not DMPA.
Option D: A six-month interval is not a standard regimen for any commonly used injectable contraceptive. This duration is more aligned with some contraceptive implants, which can last for several years.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Administration frequency of injectable contraceptives (DMPA) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Patient counseling is a key nursing responsibility. Nurses must inform clients that DMPA is administered every 3 months and emphasize the importance of adhering to the schedule for maximum effectiveness.
Nurses should educate patients about common side effects, such as irregular menstrual bleeding or amenorrhea, weight gain, and headaches. This helps manage expectations and improves continuation rates.
A critical counseling point is the delayed return of fertility after discontinuing DMPA, which can take an average of 9-10 months. This is vital information for women planning future pregnancies.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core of the question. It asks for the specific administration schedule of a particular drug: DMPA (Depo Medroxy Progesterone Acetate).
This is a factual recall question. Access your knowledge base regarding common contraceptive methods.
Recall the standard protocol for DMPA. The 'D' in DMPA stands for 'Depot', indicating a long-acting formulation.
Mentally compare DMPA's schedule with other injectables if you know them (e.g., NET-EN is every 2 months, combined injectables are monthly). This helps confirm your answer and avoid common confusion.
Select the option that matches the correct time interval for DMPA, which is 3 months.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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