CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANT

The implant is a form of long-acting reversible contraception for women. An Implant is a small, flexible plastic tube containing hormones that doctors or nurses insert just under the skin, usually around the upper arm. The hormones delivered in this way can help protect against pregnancy for up to 5 years.

How Does It Work?

The implanted tube slowly releases low levels of the hormone progestin to prevent ovulation (the release of an egg during the monthly cycle). If a girl doesn't ovulate, she cannot become pregnant because there is no egg to be fertilized.

The progestin released by the device also thickens the mucus around the cervix. This helps prevent sperm from entering the uterus. The progestin also thins the lining of the uterus so that if the egg is fertilized, it may be less likely to attach to the wall of the uterus.

 

How Well Does It Work?

Implantable contraception is a very effective method of birth control. Over the course of 1 year, fewer than 1 out of 100 typical couples using the implant will have an accidental pregnancy meaning implants are more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

 

What will I notice?

Your periods are likely to change. A few women have no periods, a few women have their normal periods, but most women have a change in bleeding pattern. This may be infrequent bleeding, frequent bleeding, light bleeding or heavy bleeding.
This is safe for your body and there are pills to treat this if it happens. Research has shown that about one woman in every seven who gets an implant has it removed because of bleeding problems.

 

Can I become pregnant after the implant is removed?

Your natural fertility will return as soon as you have the implant removed. If you get pregnant with the implant in place, and decide to continue with your pregnancy, the chance of having an abnormal baby is not increased. You will need to have the implant removed.

 

Who can have an implant inserted?

Almost every woman can have an implant inserted whatever her age. It is suitable for women who may forget pills, appointments for injections or who may have a medical reason that stops her using the combined pill.

 

Does it protect you from STDs?

Implantable contraception does not protect against STDs. Couples having sex must always use condoms along with implantable contraception to protect against STDs.