Objective: To compare the side effects or specific adverse events except bleeding pattern reported between women using depomedroxy progesterone acetate (DMPA) and a single-rod sub-dermal etonogestrel implant (Implanon).

Materials and Methods: This comparative study assessed women returning for follow-up visit at the Unit of Family planning, Siriraj Hospital between January and December 2019. Women aged 18 to 45 years old who used one of the progestin-only contraceptive methods, either DMPA or Implanon, as a birth control for six months were invited in the present study. Any adverse effects were recorded and analyzed.

Results: Fifty-nine women were in the Implanon group and 52 women were in the DMPA group. More women in the DMPA group were older [34.5 (27.5 to 38) versus 25 (22 to 31) years] and less single (26.9% versus 61.0%), p=0.001. The reported side effects in both groups were similar in degree and extent with no statistical significant difference except the symptom of flushing where more women in the Implanon group observed this event, p=0.004. There was borderline significance that women using Implanon had higher incidence of headache, gastrointestinal symptoms, and depression.

Conclusion: Both groups of women observed comparable adverse events except bleeding events. Flushing, headache, gastrointestinal symptoms, and depression were more reported by women using Implanon. Close method counseling during the course of use is essential to prolong continuing use to meet their contraceptive goal.

Keywords: DMPA, Implanon, Side effects, Thai women

DOI: doi.org/10.35755/jmedassocthai.2020.07.11552

Received 26 May 2020 | Revised 2 June 2020 | Accepted 4 Jun 2020