Implanon is a contraceptive implant that contains a synthetic progesterone,etonogestrel. It is one of the hormones commonly found in the pill. The implant is a small flexible plastic rod that is inserted just under the skin of the inside of the left upper arm< or the right arm if you are left-handed.

The implant steadily releases a small amount of hormone to provide contraception for three years.

How does it work?

The hormone in the implant stops you ovulating and also changes cervical mucus so that sperm cannot penetrate it.

Because the implant prevents ovulation, you will no longer have regular menstrual cycles while the implant is in place.

How effective is the implant?

Over seas studies have reported no pregnancies during a combined total of over 70,000 menstrual cycles.

In Australia the recently reported pregnancies with implanon have been because the device has not been inserted properly or because it has been inserted at the wrong time of the menstrual cycle.

What are the advantages of implanon?

.* effective contraception for three years

* nothing to remember on a daily basis

* no interference with intercourse

* rapid return to previous fertility when implant removed

What are the disadvantages of implanon?

* changes in your menstrual cycle: most women have reduced bleeding or no bleeding but some will experience prolonged bleeding .

* side efffects suchas headaches, acne,weight gain, moodiness and irritability

INSERTION

The insertion procedure is poerformed under local anaesthetic and takes about one minute. A waterproof dressing is applied that can be removed after 24 hours.

Some bruising and swelling may be experienced after insertion and itching over the insertion site can occur for several days Avoid scratching the skin over the implant.

REMOVAL

Removal is performed under local anaesthetic and requires a small 2mm incision. Steristrips are used to close the incision and a waterproof dressing is applied . The dressing is removed after three days.