About the Contraceptive Implant Method

Contraceptive implants are a form of birth control that contain one to six biodegradable capsules or rods that continuously release progestin into the blood stream for up to five years. The implants are surgically inserted under the skin in the upper arm and are one of the most effective birth control methods that require very little maintenance.

Pregnancy Prevention

• The progestin hormones that are inserted into the capsules or rods are releases from the implant(s) to thicken the mucus around the cervix and prevent ovulation. Contraceptive implants are highly effective, preventing pregnancy nearly as well as sterilization. They remain in the upper arm until the women feels she no longer needs it or it expires.

Where to Get It

• Since the insertion of the implants requires minor surgery, it is important that you discuss the procedure with your health care provider. A trained medical practitioner will need to perform the procedure. Once the implants are inserted, they will remain for up to five years. Whenever a woman wishes to become pregnant, she can have the implant removed and her fertility immediately returns, which is unlike most other hormonal contraceptives.

Who Should Get It

• Contraceptive implants are a hormonal birth control method for women who wish to prevent pregnancy for up to five years. For women who do not have the time or patience to remember to take a pill on a daily basis, contraceptive implants may be the best option since very little maintenance is required. For those women who cannot use other forms of hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill, contraceptive implants may be used. After discussing your birth control options with a health care provider, contraceptive implants may also be used if a woman smokes, has a risk of cardiovascular disease, has high blood pressure and is breastfeeding.

Side Effects

• One of the major side effects of contraceptive implants is irregular bleeding, which can include amenorrhea (no menstrual cycle), spotting in between cycles and lighter or heavier menstrual cycles. It's important that you discuss these menstrual cycle changes with your health care provider, as these side effects can become discouraging.

  Other possible side effects include: pain at surgical insertion site, acne, headaches, dizziness, mood changes, weight gain, breast tenderness and nausea.

Precautions

• Similar to other hormonal contraceptives, contraceptive implants do not prevent sexually transmitted diseases or HIV/AIDs.

  Also, women who use anti-seizure drugs, have or have had breast cancer, liver disease, tumor, cirrhosis, active hepatitis or experience unexplained or unusual vaginal bleeding should discuss other contraceptive options with their health care provider.