DMPA time span is-
**Core Concept**
Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA) is a long-acting reversible contraceptive injection, which provides contraception for a specific duration. The time span of DMPA is crucial for patient counseling and management.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
DMPA works by releasing a steady amount of the progestin medroxyprogesterone acetate, which suppresses ovulation and maintains a thick cervical mucus, preventing sperm penetration. The typical duration of DMPA is **12 weeks** after the last injection, at which point it is considered effective for another 12 weeks. This results in a total duration of **16 weeks** or approximately **4 months**.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This is not the correct duration of DMPA. The actual duration is longer than this option.
**Option B:** This is not the correct duration of DMPA. The actual duration is longer than this option.
**Option D:** This is not the correct duration of DMPA. The actual duration is longer than this option.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to counsel patients about the duration of DMPA and the need for a follow-up injection to maintain contraception. Patients should be informed that DMPA can be discontinued at any time if they choose to become pregnant.
**Correct Answer: C. 16 weeks or 4 months.**