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April 09, 2001

"Grace Period" for Reinjection of DMPA

Women using the injectable contraceptive DMPA are supposed to return every three months for their reinjection, but if they have difficulty returning at the precise time is there a "grace period" for such reinjections?

For DMPA it is acceptable to give the next injection:

• up to 2 weeks late and possibly up to 4 weeks late depending on the population, or
• up to 4 weeks early (though not ideal).

(The rationale for this recommendation is based on the very low probability of pregnancy in the fourth month following injection and the seemingly lack or very low risk of teratogenic effects of DMPA).

References:
Recommendations for updating selected practices in contraceptive use: Results of a technical meeting, Volume I.

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The "Pearls" offer answers to commonly asked questions about family planning. These "Pearls" are prepared by Dr. James D. Shelton, Senior Medical Scientist, Office of Population, United States Agency for International Development (USAID)

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