What is an implant?
An implant is a small, bendy tube(s), which is placed just under your skin. It releases a progestogen hormone over a number of years.
How effective are implants?
Implants are over 99% effective. This means that less than 1 woman in 100 will get pregnant in a year.
Where can I get implants?
Only a specially trained doctor or nurse can give you an implant. Doctors and nurses need to be trained to fit and remove implants. If your GP or family planning clinic does not offer this method of contraception they may be able to tell you where you can go for it. Check the directory to find your nearest service.
The doctor or nurse will consider your medical history to make sure you can have an implant. They should also tell you about any possible side effects before you have an implant. Ask the doctor or nurse any questions you have. Take information home to read and go back when you have made up your mind.
What are the advantages of an implant?
- You don't have to remember to take your contraceptive as it lasts for 3 years.
- It does not interfere with sex.
- You can breastfeed if you have an implant (although a small amount of hormone will be present in the breast milk).
- You can use implants if you cannot take oestrogens, like those in the combined pill.
- Normal levels of fertility will return as soon as the implant is taken out.
What are the disadvantages of an implant?
There are a number of side effects you may experience from using an implant. These may include:
- A change in your periods. In the first year of getting an implant, most women will have irregular bleeding. This is normal and will usually settle. Some women may have heavy and prolonged bleeding and a few will not bleed at all. These changes may be irritating but they are not harmful.
- Headaches
- Acne
- Appetite change
- Tender breasts
- Bloating
- An infection or pain in the arm (because the skin needs to be opened to put the implant in and to take it back out).
- Difficulty removing the implant
- Small fluid-filled cysts on the ovaries. The cysts are not dangerous and do not usually need to be treated. Often there are no symptoms, but some women may have pelvic pain. These cysts usually disappear without treatment
Some women experience depression and mood changes, although research has not shown that implants are the cause of this.
An implant does not protect you against sexually transmitted infections, so you may need to use condoms as well.
Can anything make an implant less effective?
Some prescribed medicines may make an implant less effective. These include medicines that treat epilepsy and tuberculosis. Some complementary medicines may also affect how an implant works. Always say you are using an implant if you are prescribed any medicines.
How often do I need to see a doctor or nurse?
You will have a check-up three months after the implant is put in. You will then have a check-up every year after this.
If you have any concerns or wish more information on the implants speak to your GP or staff at a GUM or Family Planning Clinic. You will find more detailed information on implants at the link below.
Links
Family Planning Association: www.fpa.org.uk
