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.

You can find out more about the contraceptive implant here

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.

Checking for STIs

If you have had a new sexual partner since your last sexual health screen then you could be at risk of having a sexually transmitted infection. Find out how to get tested before your implant is fitted.

Fitting and Removal

 

Final Thoughts

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.
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