A 5-Year Audit of the Use of Sub-dermal Contraceptive Implants in a Teaching Hospital in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background:: The scientific community has developed non-biodegradable progestational sub-dermal implants as a response to the need of some women for long-acting contraceptives that are effective and safe. Aim:: The aim of the study was to describe the socio-demographic characteristics of women who received the implant and explore the side effects and reason for discontinuation of subdermal implant. Method:: A retrospective audit of all the clients who opted for contraceptive implants between January 1st, 2011, to December 31st, 2015, was carried out. This was done by a senior registrar in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology from the clinic register. The card numbers of all the clients who agreed to use contraceptive implants were identified (589), and their case records were retrieved from the records unit and family planning clinics. Only JadelleR and Implanon were available in the clinic during the period of study. Using a proforma, information regarding the clients’ age, religion, place of residence, level of education, observed side effects, and reason for discontinuation was obtained. Results:: The socio-demographic characteristics of the sub-dermal contraceptive implant acceptors revealed that the age range of clients was between 16 to 49 years. Acceptance was highest among the age group of 31-40 years (343; 58.2%). The various complications recorded revealed that most (527; 89.5%) of the clients reported no complication, while 3.4% (20) had increased menstrual flow and 2.7% (16) had menorrhagia. There was a significant association between educational qualification (X2=25.733, p=0.041), age (X2= 23.657, p= 0.001), parity (X2=81.264, p=0.001), and discontinuation of the implant. Conclusion:: The study findings revealed an increase in the sub-dermal contraceptive implant uptake. This may be due to its longevity. With adequate pre- and post-insertion counselling, the continuation rate could be increased.