Thirty-five million women worldwide use injectable contraceptives such as Depo-Provera (also known as DMPA) to prevent unwanted pregnancy, and this number is projected to grow. In some regions of the world—for example, sub-Saharan Africa—DMPA is the most widely used modern contraceptive method. DMPA is popular among women for many reasons: it is discreet, affordable, highly effective, and convenient, only requiring a reinjection every 13 weeks. Furthermore, because DMPA only contains progestin and not estrogen, breastfeeding women can use it for postpartum family planning.
Despite its many benefits, the scientific community has raised several concerns about DMPA use. In the past, these concerns have included a loss of bone mineral density among users, though research has demonstrated that this loss is reversed once use is discontinued. This winter, a study published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases suggested an increased risk of HIV infection among women who use DMPA. However, after a careful review of the evidence, the WHO issued a statement in February affirming that women with HIV or at high risk of HIV can safely use hormonal contraceptives to prevent pregnancy but that these women should always use male or female condoms to protect against HIV infection.
For more commentary of the WHO’s statement concerning DMPA, read “WHO Upholds Guidance on Hormonal Contraceptive Use and HIV Risk) by Ruwaida Salem.
