The College of Sexual and Reproductive Health have recently announced that the implant is now effective for 5 years, instead of 3 years. If you currently have an implant, you don't need an exchange as soon.
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. An implant is over 99% effective if it's replaced every 5 years (this was previously 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.
It's almost Pride Month, and we're delighted to be joining the fun at @York Pride today 🌈
Pride Month is a time to celebrate love, diversity, and the right to live authentically. YSH are committed to providing inclusive and affirming sexual health services for LGBTQ+ people all year round and can help you with:
🌷 Contraception
🚫 Free condoms
💉 Vaccinations
🧠 Mental health support
🧪 STI testing & treatment
🩸 PEP and PrEP
Our warm and inclusive clinics based across York and North Yorkshire offer a safe, non-judgmental space for everyone. Call us on 01904 721111 to book in, and yorsexualhealth.org.uk for more information.
