Use of depo-provera in teens
Khoiny, F.E.
Journal of Pediatric Health Care Official Publication of National Association of Pediatric Nurse Associates and Practitioners 10(5): 195-201
1996
ISSN/ISBN: 0891-5245 PMID: 8920351 DOI: 10.1016/s0891-5245(96)90001-2Document Number: 292985
US teenagers have had access to the injectable contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA; Depo-Provera) since the US Food and Drug Administration approved it in 1992. DMPA suppresses follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, which in turn prevents the LH surge and thus inhibits ovulation. It also causes a thick cervical mucus (reducing sperm penetration). Since DMPA also changes tubal mobility and creates shallow and atrophic endometrium, implantation is prevented. DMPA must be administered every 3 months to be effective. Its first-year failure rate is 0.3%, which is lower than that of oral contraceptives (3%). Advantages of DMPA are that it: allows for privacy; improves compliance (since action is required every 3 months rather than every day); has no estrogen-related complications (e.g., thrombophlebitis); is effective; is safe for breast feeding teenagers; reduces seizure frequency in teenagers with epilepsy; has a favorable effect on sickle cell disease or coagulopathy; reduces menstrual flow, thus preventing iron-deficiency anemia; reduces menstrual pain and pre-menstrual symptoms; and decreases risk of pelvic inflammatory disease. The leading disadvantages are menstrual irregularities and spotting. Some other possible disadvantages include weight gain (most common reason for discontinuation), delayed return of fertility, headaches, acne, and nervousness. Health providers must perform a complete history of teenagers requesting DMPA. They should determine the presence or absence of absolute and relative contraindications to DMPA. Absolute contraindications are known or suspected pregnancy, undiagnosed or abnormal vaginal bleeding, known or suspected history of breast cancer, acute liver disease or jaundice, thromboembolism, and sensitivity to DMPA. DMPA is administered intramuscularly at a concentration of 150 mg/ml. Health providers need to use a frank, nonjudgmental, empathic, and unhurried approach to facilitate a trusting relationship and rapport with teenagers. Advanced counseling on the pros and cons of DMPA, how DMPA works, and DMPA's inability to protect against sexually transmitted diseases is essential.