Objective: To compare users’ and providers’ perspectives on injectable contraceptives (IC). Methods: This qualitative study employed semi-structured in-depth interview technique. Sixty women with experience of using IC and 10 doctors involved in providing IC were selected. Telephonic interviews of doctors were also conducted. Results: Over 50% of the women had side effects and had discontinued use within 1 year. The most common ‘likes’ according to women included ease of use, being tension free for 3 months and being effective and those of the providers were that it reduced anemia, privacy could be maintained, noncontraceptive benefits, good substitute, not to be taken daily like pills, safe and effective. The most common ‘dislikes’ reported by providers and clients were excessive bleeding, amenorrhea, irregular periods, spotting, weight gain and frequent pregnancy tests. Conclusion: Although certain distinct advantages of IC have been expressed, the associated problems are equally significant and therefore IC should not be an over-the-counter contraceptive
