INTRODUCING CYCLOFEM AS AN INJECTABLE CONTRACEPTIVE METHOD AND EVALUATING ITS ACCEPTABILITY AND EFICACY

Injectable contraceptives are safe and effective methods of reversible contraception for most women. Cyclofem, a once-a-month injectable contraceptive, was introduced in Iranian health delivery system since 2008. The main purpose of the study was to assess safety, efficacy, acceptability, and causes of discontinuation of cyclofem in the Iranian context. A total of 644 healthy women participated from rural and urban areas. Clients received Cyclofem based on a once-a-month regiment and were followed-up for up to 12 months. The data were evaluated by life table analysis. A total of 4144 women-months of treatment experience were accumulated during a one year period. Cyclofem proved its use-effectiveness (pregnancy rate of 0.00%) and its safety under routine service conditions of family planning facilities in Iran. The most common reason for method discontinuation was vaginal bleeding problems. The results of this study have once again demonstrated that Cyclofem is a highly effective method with an acceptable side effect profile. In addition, the study provided the elements for its approval by local health authorities and its inclusion into the Iranian National Family Planning Program.