Association Between the Use of Three-Month Injectable Contraceptives and the Incidence of Spotting Among Clients at Karawang Regency, West Java

Abstract

Background: Injectable contraceptives remain a popular choice among women in Indonesia due to their effectiveness, ease of use, and relatively long duration of action. The three-month injectable contraceptive (Depo Medroxyprogesterone Acetate) is widely used in both urban and rural settings. However, one of its commonly reported side effects is spotting, which can lead to discomfort, dissatisfaction, and discontinuation of use.

Objective: This study aimed to examine the association between the duration of three-month injectable contraceptive use and the incidence of spotting among family planning clients at Karawang Regency, West Java Province.

Methods: This research employed a descriptive analytical design with a cross-sectional approach. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. The population included all women using the three-month injectable contraceptive who experienced spotting, totaling 114 respondents. The sampling technique used was total sampling. Data analysis was conducted using the Chi-square test.

Results: Among the 114 respondents, the majority were aged under 20 years (n = 60), had senior high school to university-level education (n = 78), and had a parity of fewer than two children (n = 71). A statistically significant association was found between the duration of three-month injectable contraceptive use and the incidence of spotting (p = 0.000).

Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between the duration of three-month injectable contraceptive use and the incidence of spotting. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing client education and side-effect management for long-term contraceptive users