The first thing we do is inject some local anaesthetic into the area where we will insert your implant. That can sometimes sting a bit. After that we wait for the area to be numb, before fitting/removing your implant. This means you will feel no more pain, but you might be able to feel some pushing. After the implant is fitted you may have some bruising which might ache. If this is the case, take some paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Our Services
Fit or exchange my implant
Before you book an appointment, please follow the steps below:
Use the links below to read the implant information and watch the video. This will help you decide if the implant is the right method for you.
Fitting the contraceptive implant | NHS
If you are 55 or older you do not require contraception
Preparation checklist:
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.
Information for under 18s:
During the consultation you will be asked some additional questions regarding your social circumstances, for example which school you go to and who you are living with. All our consultations are confidential. We will only share information about you if we think you or someone else is at risk. If information is shared, it is with services that can support you
Book a routine home sexual health screen:
If you have had a new sexual partner since your last sexual health screen then you could be at risk or having a sexually transmitted infection. You can order a free home testing kit by clicking here.
Booking your appointment:
Call YSH booking line on 01904 721111 to arrange an appointment for the insertion of the implant.
Please allow at least 30 minutes for the appointment.
YSH is a training service. This means there may sometimes be a qualified nurse or doctor in training working alongside the YSH practitioner at your appointment.
Frequently asked questions:
Will it hurt to have the implant fitted/removed/exchanged?
How long does the implant last?
The implant lasts for 3 years. If you would like to continue using the method after this time, it can be exchanged for a new implant.
What are the side effects of the implant?
Although the implant is a very safe contraceptive, all hormones may give some people side effects. Some reported side effects are headache, sore breasts, changes in mood, acne. These tend to settle within the first 3 months. The main side effect of the implant is changes to periods. You may notice your periods become lighter, become irregular, last longer, become heavier or more painful, or stop completely. These changes are not usually anything to worry about, and for most people they will settle within the first year. But if you are worried or your periods are becoming problematic, speak to your GP or sexual health clinic.
Will I gain weight?
In the studies that have been undertaken, there is no evidence that the implant makes you put on weight. However, a small amount of people believe their weight gain is due to the implant. Some people also mention they had fluid retention at first, which settled.
Can I participate in sport with the implant in?
We advise no heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 48 hours after the implant is fitted, removed, or exchanged. After that, there is no restriction on playing any sport with your implant in. Some people, however, have mentioned that sports where people may grab your arm such as some martial arts, may be uncomfortable if coming into contact where the implant is.
Can I carry on with my normal activities after the implant is fitted?
You should feel fine to carry on with your daily life after your implant fit, removal, or exchange. You will need to keep the plaster on for 48 hours and make sure it stays clean and dry during this time. We also advise no heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 48 hours after implant fit, removal, or exchange.
Will my periods change with the implant?
The main side effect of the implant is changes to periods. Every person is different and for most, periods are not problematic. However, you may notice your periods become lighter, become irregular, last longer, become heavier or more painful, stay the same, or stop completely. These changes are not usually anything to worry about, and for most people they will settle within the first year. But if you are worried or your periods are becoming problematic, speak to your GP or sexual health clinic.
Will the implant affect my mood?
All hormonal contraception may affect your mood. It affects every person differently. If your mood is affected, this usually settles within 3 months of your implant being fitted. If you are experiencing significant changes in mood, and you believe this is due to your implant, please speak to your GP or local sexual health service.
Will I, or anyone, be able to see my implant in my arm?
The implant is generally discreet as it is put just under the skin on the inside of your arm. The outline maybe seen if you have slim arms and there may be a small scar where it has gone in. If you have darker skin, a visible line can develop where the implant is sitting.
How effective is the implant and when does it start working?
The implant is over 99% effective. Less than 1 in 100 women who use it for a year will get pregnant. If it is fitted in the first 5 days of your period, the implant will protect you against pregnancy straight away. If it is fitted at any other time in your menstrual cycle, then you will not be protected against pregnancy for the first 7 days and will need to use another form of contraception such as condoms.
How quickly can I have the implant removed if I don't like it?
The implant can be removed at any time. With any contraceptive method, it is advised to try it for 3-6 months to allow your body to get used to it. If the bleeding pattern becomes a problem for you, please talk to a sexual health clinic or your GP before deciding to have it removed.
Can the implant move inside my arm?
The implant may move a few centimetres from where it was put in. If you cannot feel your implant, please contact your local sexual health clinic or your GP.
Where can I get the implant fitted or removed?
The procedure can be done at sexual health clinics, some GP surgeries, and may be fitted following an abortion at some termination clinics.
Can I have my implant exchanged early?
The implant doesn’t normally need replacing earlier than 3 years. If you have concerns, please contact your sexual health clinic or GP surgery.
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