The contraceptive implant is a small plastic rod, around 4 cm long, that a doctor or nurse puts under the skin of your arm. It prevents pregnancy by releasing the hormone progestogen. This stops the ovaries releasing an egg each month. The implant works for 3 years before it needs to be replaced. An implant is over 99% effective if it's replaced every 3 years. A specially trained doctor or nurse can remove the implant at any time if you no longer want to use it and once the implant is removed, your chance of getting pregnant will return to how it previously was straight away.
The contraceptive implant is very safe and serious side effects and complications are rare. There is a small risk of infection where implant is put in, which can lead to swelling and pain at the site of the implant, and of the implant moving out of place, usually a few centimetres away from where it was put in.
It’s very common to have a change in your periods after you have an implant fitted.
If you are thinking of having an implant with us, please read the below information.
Is the implant right for you?
Before you book your appointment for your implant fit, please make sure that you can answer yes to the following statements:
I have read the information about the implant
I know that my bleeding pattern will change and that I may experience no periods, irregular bleeding or prolonged bleeding.
I have contacted the clinic if I am taking topiramate or medicine for epilepsy, .
I understand that the clinician will not fit/exchange the implant if they are concerned that I may be pregnant
I understand it is important to use contraception reliably prior to your implant fit
I understand that an implant may fail as contraception in less than 1 woman in every 1000 that have them fitted.
I understand that I may have significant bruising after the procedure and a small scar.
I understand that there is a small risk of infection after the procedure and will seek medical advice if the implant site becomes red, hot and swollen.
I understand that occasionally implants are difficult to remove and may need removal by a specialist practitioner with the help of an ultrasound scan.
Before you book your appointment for your implant fit, please make sure that you can answer yes to the following statements:
I have read the information about the implant
I know that my bleeding pattern will change and that I may experience no periods, irregular bleeding or prolonged bleeding.
I have contacted the clinic if I am taking topiramate or medicine for epilepsy, .
I understand that the clinician will not fit/exchange the implant if they are concerned that I may be pregnant
I understand it is important to use contraception reliably prior to your implant fit
I understand that an implant may fail as contraception in less than 1 woman in every 1000 that have them fitted.
I understand that I may have significant bruising after the procedure and a small scar.
I understand that there is a small risk of infection after the procedure and will seek medical advice if the implant site becomes red, hot and swollen.
I understand that occasionally implants are difficult to remove and may need removal by a specialist practitioner with the help of an ultrasound scan.
Our next walk in cervical screening clinic in 📍 Northallerton is on Saturday 18th October 2025 at The Friarage Hospital. You'll find us in The Women's Unit from 10am - 3pm. If you've received your reminder letter and have been putting it off, we'd love to see you there!
💫 If you've been struggling with booking an appointment, a walk in is a great way of getting your screening. Simply turn up on the day with your NHS number, and we'll do the rest.
💫 If you're anxious about your screening, our highly experienced team are on hand to support you every step of the way. You can chat to your nurse who will make adjustments to help you. Remember, you're in control and we're here to help. You can even bring a friend for support.
💫 If you're embarrassed, please don't be! We know it can feel uncomfortable and awkward, but we're a judgement free zone. We're not bothered how long it's been, whether you've waxed, or whether your socks are odd. We'll just be so pleased you came!
💫 If you're seeing this post and you've been putting it off or haven't got round to booking, take this as your sign to tick it off your to do list ✅ This is our last walk in clinic in Northallerton for 2025, so we'd love to see you there.
If this clinic doesn't suit you, check out our website yorsexualhealth.org.uk for information on other ways to access your screening through YorSexual Health.
