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Patient Information for Contraceptive Implants
What is the contraceptive implant?
A contraceptive implant is a small, flexible plastic rod containing the progestogen hormone. It prevents pregnancy primarily by inhibiting ovulation and thinning the lining of the uterus. It requires fitting and removal by a qualified health care provider but other than that requires no other monitoring or user input. It is extremely reliable with a failure rate of 0.05% and it lasts for 5 years. It is a long acting but still a reversible contraceptive.
The implant is implanted under the skin of the upper arm by method of an injection. The only contraceptive implant currently available in the UK is Nexplanon®
Preparing for your appointment
• Take a note of the first day of your last period
• Continue using a hormonal method of contraception (pill, patch, ring, injection or implant) until the day of your appointment, or, avoid all sexual intercourse for at least 3 weeks before your appointment.
• If you are replacing an implant which is not out-of-date, then please ensure you avoid any unprotected sex for 7 days before your appointment. This is in case we are unable to insert a new device after removing the old one.
• If you are replacing an implant which is out-of-date, then you are no longer protected against pregnancy and you must ensure you use an alternative method of contraception or avoid all sexual intercourse for at least 3 weeks before your appointment.
• Perform a pregnancy test if you have had unprotected sex since your last period.
• Have a meal and drink plenty of fluids.
• Take a mild painkiller like paracetamol about an hour before to reduce any potential discomfort.
How is the contraceptive implant put in?
The contraceptive implant is about the size of a matchstick, and a trained doctor or nurse will be fitting it.
• An injection of local anaesthetic is used to numb the skin.
• A special device is used to place the implant under the skin. The wound is dressed with a plaster like dressing which needs to be kept dry and left in place for at least 48-hours. It will soon heal.
• The procedure only takes a few minutes. Like any injection the area around the implant may be bruised and tender for a few days but there is no need to avoid your normal activities.
After your implant is fitted
• Wait 7 days: The implant can take up to 7 days to become fully effective, so you may need to use another form of contraception during this time, unless it was fitted on the first day of your period.
• Monitor the site: You will have a bandage on the site. If you notice signs of infection, such as redness, heat, or discharge, contact your healthcare provider.
• Set a reminder: Note when your implant needs to be replaced (approximately three years).
• If you are experiencing persistent problematic bleeding or perceive any other issues with the implant do speak to your care provider as it may well be something that can be managed.
• The implant will not protect against STIs.
• There is a chance of scarring and loss of sensation around the site where the implant is inserted.
• There is a risk of migration of the implant, if you cannot feel the implant please inform your GP.
• Certain enzyme-inducing drug may reduce the efficacy of the implant, such as St John’s Wort. Check with a pharmacist before starting any medications like this over the counter.