Contraceptive implant
The contraceptive implant (Nexplanon) is a small, flexible plastic rod.
If implanted correctly, it is over 99% effective. Fewer than 1 in 1,000 people who use the implant as contraception for 3 years will become pregnant.
A doctor or nurse inserts it under the skin of your upper arm to prevent pregnancy. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Contraceptive implant.
How the implant works.
The implant prevents pregnancy by releasing progestin, which:
It prevents you from releasing an egg (ovulation),
makes it difficult for sperm to reach an egg,
and thins the lining of the uterus, so there's less chance of an egg attaching to it.
When does it work?
You can have the implant inserted at any time during your menstrual cycle, as long as you're not pregnant.
If you insert it during the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle, you will be protected against pregnancy.
If it is inserted on any other day of your menstrual cycle, you must use an additional contraceptive method, such as condoms, for 7 days.
After childbirth,
you can have the contraceptive implant inserted at any time after you have given birth.
If it is inserted before the 21st day after delivery, or the day before, you will be protected against pregnancy.
If it is inserted after day 21, you will need to use an additional contraceptive method, such as condoms, for 7 days.
It is safe to use the implant while breastfeeding.
After a miscarriage or
abortion, the implant can be inserted immediately. You will be protected against pregnancy instantly.
How is the contraceptive implant inserted or removed?
Local anesthesia is used to numb the area on the inside of the arm.
The implant is inserted under the skin. Insertion takes only a few minutes and feels like an injection. No stitches are needed after insertion. It works for 3 years before needing to be replaced. You can use the contraceptive implant until menopause.
The implant can be removed at any time by a doctor or nurse. Removal only takes a few minutes and will be done under local anesthesia. The doctor or nurse will make a small incision in the skin to remove the implant.
Once the contraceptive implant is removed, you will no longer be protected against pregnancy.
The implant is usually removed at the medical center or clinic where it was inserted. If this is not the case, your primary care physician or sexual health service can advise you on where implant removal is performed in your area.
Who can use the implant?
Most women can use the contraceptive implant; however, it may not be suitable for some. Your doctor or nurse will discuss this with you.
You should not use the implant if:
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