Results from an acceptability study of depo-subQ in Uniject (SAYANA PRESS®) in Uganda and Senegal

Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) is a widely used injectable contraceptive given by the intramuscular (IM) route. A subcutaneous formulation, depo-subQ in Uniject (SAYANA PRESS®), has been developed. It is anticipated that this method will be a valuable innovation in family planning (FP) service delivery. This outcome hinges on the method being affordable and acceptable to decision makers, FP providers, and clients. This study assessed acceptability of depo-subQ in Uniject among clients and providers, including community health workers (CHWs). User trials in FP clinics and with clients of CHWs were conducted in Uganda and Senegal. Pre- and post-injection questionnaires were administered to 360 experienced DMPA clients who received the subcutaneous injection. The participants were followed three months post-injection to further assess experience with depo-subQ in Uniject. Eligible DMPA clients who decline to receive depo-subQ in Uniject were invited to complete a questionnaire about their reasons for declining. Interviews were conducted with 80 CHWs and 20 clinic-based providers to assess their experiences providing the method. The results will inform the introduction of depo-subQ in Uniject on three levels — country, community, and health facility.