Contraceptive Implants

 Contraceptive implants (also called sub-dermal implants) are small hormone (progesterone) bearing capsules or rods which when inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm, release the hormone slowly over a period of time to prevent pregnancy. Implants do not contain oestrogen; therefore, they are free from the side effects associated with that hormone. 

MODE OF ACTION 

Contraceptive implants prevent pregnancy primarily by making cervical mucus too thick for sperm to penetrate and they also suppress ovulation in many cycles.

EFFECTIVENESS OF IMPLANTS

Implants provide 99.9% effective protection against pregnancy. They are effective 24 hours post insertion.

ADVANTAGES OF IMPLANTS 

Contraceptive Benefits

• Highly effective and offers long term protection against pregnancy

• Does not interfere with act of sexual intercourse

• Effective within 24 hours after insertion 

• No frequent clinic visits required

• Fertility returns almost immediately after implants are removed

Non-contraceptive Health Benefits

• Implants do not affect breastfeeding and can be used by breastfeeding mothers starting immediately post-partum

May reduce menstrual flow (thinning of the endometrium)

• They help prevent ectopic pregnancy (but do not eliminate the risk altogether) 

• They protect against iron-deficiency anemia

• They help protect from symptomatic PID 

• May protect against endometrial cancer

LIMITATIONS AND SIDE EFFECTS OF CONTRACEPTIVE IMPLANTS

Some of the limitations include:

• The client cannot initiate or discontinue the method on her own as it requires a trained provider to insert and remove the implant. 

• Insertion and removal requires minor surgical procedures and may be uncomfortable.

• Do not protect against STIs, including hepatitis B and HIV. 

Individuals at risk should use condoms in addition to the implants. 

• There may be slight delay in resumption of fertility about 1 year)

Common side effects of using implants include:

• Change in menstrual pattern including; amenorrhea, spotting, intermenstrual bleeding or prolonged bleeding

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Breast tenderness

• Mood changes

• Weight changes

• Mild abdominal pain


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