Contraceptive Implanon & IUD insertion and removals

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What is it?

Implanon and/or IUD is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the inner upper arm used to prevent pregnancy for up to 3 years. This contraception slowly releases a hormone called progestogen similar to the natural hormone progesterone which is made by the body.

Implanon works by preventing ovulation (release of the egg from the ovary), while also thickening the cervical mucus so that the sperm cannot enter the uterus (womb).

How effective is it?

Implanon is a very effective contraceptive method (99.9% effective), however there are some factors that may reduce the effectiveness of the implant such as: age, sexual frequency, and the medications that you take. Therefore, it is important to consult with your doctor or nurse before making any decisions.

What are the advantages of it?

It is highly effective
It lasts a long time (up to three years)
It is reversible and the return to fertility is rapid
It does not require women to remember to take a pill
Women do not need to have regular injections
It is a cost-effective method of contraception
It may reduce painful periods, premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and acne in some women

What are its side effects?

Headaches
Mood changes
Breast tenderness
Bruising or pain at the site of insertion for one to two weeks
A small scar (some women may develop a thickened scar)
Allergic reactions to the local anesthetic or the implant materials
Infection at the insertion/removal site
Difficulty removing the implant

Who can’t use this contraception?

Certain conditions may NOT allow the use of the implant. These include:

Patients with a history of breast cancer
Unexplained vaginal bleeding (your doctor will need to investigate this prior to the insertion of the implant)
Certain medications which may prevent the contraceptive implant from working effectively

How is the contraceptive implant inserted and removed?

Implanon involves a small procedure by a doctor who has been specifically trained in insertion and removal of the implant. Local anaesthetic is applied to the skin to make the insertion more comfortable. The implant is normally inserted during the first five days of the menstrual period but it can be inserted at other times if there is no chance that the woman could already be pregnant. If it is inserted in the first five days of the menstrual period it will be immediately effective. If it is inserted at other times it will not be effective for seven days. The implant can be left in the arm for three years (or removed earlier if desired). Removal is a simple procedure using a small amount of local anaesthetic.

For more information