A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking medroxyprogesterone injections for contraception.

Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

The correct answer is choice D. The client should switch to a higher-dose formulation of oral contraceptives.Breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect of low-dose birth control pills, especially in the first months of use.It may indicate that the estrogen dose is too low to suppress the growth of the endometrium.

A higher-dose formulation may reduce or eliminate breakthrough bleeding by providing more estrogen.

Choice A is wrong because taking two pills daily until bleeding stops is not a recommended way to manage breakthrough bleeding.

It may cause side effects such as nausea, headache, or breast tenderness.It may also increase the risk of blood clots.

Choice B is wrong because stopping oral contraceptives immediately is not advisable unless there is a medical reason to do so.

Stopping oral contraceptives may cause irregular bleeding, ovulation, and pregnancy.

The client should consult with their provider before discontinuing any medication.

Choice C is wrong because smoking does not cause breakthrough bleeding, but it does increase the risk of serious complications from oral contraceptives, such as stroke, heart attack, or blood clots.The client should avoid smoking while taking any hormonal contraceptive, regardless of whether they experience breakthrough bleeding or not.

The correct answer is choice C. OCs can decrease menstrual blood loss and cramps.This is because OCs prevent ovulation and thin the lining of the uterus, which reduces the amount of bleeding and cramping during menstruation.

Choice A is wrong because OCs do not provide protection against STIs.The only contraceptive methods that can prevent STIs are barrier methods, such as condoms.

Choice B is wrong because OCs can have variable effects on libido and sexual satisfaction.

Some women may experience an increase, while others may experience a decrease or no change at all.This depends on individual factors, such as hormone levels, mood, and relationship quality.

Choice D is wrong because OCs can also have variable effects on mood and depression.

Some women may experience an improvement, while others may experience a worsening or no change at all.This also depends on individual factors, such as hormone sensitivity, stress, and history of mental health problems.