Contraceptive Implant

Healthpind Staff

Quick Facts

Highly effective
Hormonal method of contraception
Put in by a doctor or nurse

Effectiveness

The Implant is 99.95 % effective in preventing pregnancy.

Implant 99.95%

Key Benefits

A long-acting but reversible method of contraception
It can be removed at any time, and there is a quick return to fertility
There is no need to interrupt sex for contraception

What is a Contraceptive Implant?

The contraceptive Implant is a flexible matchstick-sized plastic rod to be injected underneath the higher arm’s skin. They protect from pregnancy for about three years. It releases a low dose of progesterone that thickens cervical mucous. There is also suppression of the release of the egg. These processes stop the fusion of the egg with the male sperm, preventing pregnancy.

How is it inserted?

A local anesthetic is used to numb the area within your higher arm. The Implant is then inserted underneath your skin. It barely takes a few minutes to place, and the procedure appears similar to having an injection.

Nexplanon(Implant) works for three years before it must be replaced. You’ll be able to use this technique till you reach menopause. The Implant is often removed at any time by a specially trained doctor or nurse. It takes some minutes to get rid of and is also done under local anesthesia. The doctor or nurse may give a small cut in your skin to pull the Implant out softly.

Pros

It last long (3 years)
Need not remember taking pills daily
Fertility is restored once you wish to remove the Implant
It can make your periods happy
It is a private contraceptive and easy to hide for those who don’t want to disclose that they wish to prevent pregnancy.
It doesn’t interrupt your sex life.
Safe to use if you are breastfeeding. Women who recently gave birth and don’t wish to plan for a second child.
It is a convenient and easy way out for the birth control

Cons

A common side effect is amenorrhoea. It means that your periods may stop. Please consider it before deciding to have an implant.

Initially, side effects like headaches, breast tenderness, nausea, mood swings
It doesn’t protect you from STDs
Your menstrual cycle may stop at once or become irregular
Some women can gain weight
Be careful. The implant tube may be dislocated from its position
Pus or bleeding in case of infection.
Pain in the breast, ovaries, or abdominal area. But very rare.
Might get acne
Vaginal dryness is very rare

Essential Tips

You can get the Implant inserted at any time during the menstrual cycle. However, suppose unprotected intercourse has occurred within the past month. In that case, use another contraceptive method until a negative pregnancy test or subsequent menses can exclude pregnancy.
If the Implant is not inserted during the first five days of the menstrual cycle, use a backup contraceptive method concurrently for at least seven days. The Implant may be inserted immediately after an abortion or childbirth, regardless of breastfeeding status.
After implantation, you should be able to feel the implant but not see it. If you can’t feel it, consult the doctor.
After the insertion of the tube, don’t lift any heavy objects for a few days

Recommended to use if

You want effective, long-lasting, and reversible contraception
Ready to accept changes to your menstrual cycle.
You find it hard to remember to take pills
You can’t take the hormone estrogen.

Not Recommended if

You have taken or are taking treatment for any cancer
If you have severe liver disease, take certain medications that may prevent the contraceptive Implant from working (talk with your doctor or nurse)
You witness symptoms of pregnancy
Have past or present medical problems related to heart
You bleed after having sex or during sex
You don’t wish any change to your menstrual cycle
Suffered from blood clots or is suffering from blood-related diseases

In Short

One of the remarkable things about the intradermal Implant is that it lasts for a reasonably long time and is highly effective— but it’s not permanent. Your doctor can take it out if you wish to get pregnant or don’t want to have the Implant anymore. Becoming pregnant is quickly possible after the removal.

Reference