What is the failure rate for the Depo-Provera contraceptive method?

Study for the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) Qualifying Exam. Hone your skills with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare confidently for your exam!

The failure rate for the Depo-Provera contraceptive method is generally considered to be around 6% with typical use. This means that about 6 out of 100 women may become pregnant within the first year of using the injection as their contraceptive method. The effectiveness of Depo-Provera is highly reliant on adherence to the injection schedule, with the shot needing to be received every 12 weeks. When administered properly, it provides a reliable form of contraception and is one of the more effective hormonal methods available.

In comparison to the other choices, a lower failure rate (like 1% or 3%) typically refers to methods like IUDs or sterilization, which are more effective than hormonal injections. Even though 9% is a possible failure rate cited for some hormonal contraceptives, it reflects a higher rate than what is associated with Depo-Provera, thus supporting that the best-supported figure for typical use aligns with 6%. This clarifies that while the method is effective, it still requires compliance to maintain its contraceptive reliability.

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