Getting an Implant inserted requires a small surgical procedure that is performed by your healthcare provider. The best time to have the Implant inserted is within the first five days of your menstrual period because you can then be completely sure you are not pregnant. However, it can also be inserted at any other time, as long as there is no chance that you could be pregnant.
To start this process, a healthcare provider will ask you some questions that will help to determine if you are a good fit for an implant. You might also be given a physical examination. Once your compatibility with this method has been determined, the next step will be to numb a small area of your upper arm with a painkiller. An applicator is then used to insert the rods or capsules under your skin [3].
The Nexaplanon manufacturers advise that, as soon as the Implant has been inserted, both you and your healthcare provider should confirm that the implant is in your arm by feeling for it. In addition, if at any point of usage, you can’t feel the implant in your arm, you should immediately start using a non-hormonal contraceptive method to prevent pregnancy and visit your healthcare provider as soon as possible, to confirm whether the implant is in place.
Once it’s confirmed that the Implant is in place, your healthcare provider will then close the incision with a protective dressing and cover it with a pressure bandage to minimize any bleeding and bruising.
What should I expect after the Contraceptive Implant insertion?
Having the Implants inserted is not painful. Most women have only reported feeling a pinch when getting the numbing injection. However, once the painkiller has worn off, you may experience slight bruising on the site where the incision was done and soreness in the arm for the next few days. These do not require any treatment and will often subside in a few days.
You will be advised by your health care to keep the incision site dry for at least two days. The bandage can be removed after 24 hours, while the rest of the protective dressing should be removed in three to five days or after the skin has healed [4].
How soon after insertion does the Contraceptive Implant become effective?
If you get the Contraceptive Implant within the first five days of your period, you are immediately protected from pregnancy. Suppose you are outside of those first five days. You will need to use a backup method like; an external or internal condom, a diaphragm, or a sponge, for the next seven days. If you have unprotected sex within these seven days, you should use emergency contraception [6].
Can you drink alcohol after having the Contraceptive Implant inserted?
Yes. Consuming alcohol does not reduce the effectiveness of contraceptive implants. But remember to drink responsibly. Alcohol lowers one inhibition, including the ability to practice safe sex. Remember, the Contraceptive Implant does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
How to stop spotting while on a Contraceptive Implant
According to Planned Parenthood is common for one to experience changes in your bleeding pattern, after getting contraceptive implants. Some people will experience spotting within the first 6-12 months. Others will have either long-term spotting or heavier and longer bleeding. For the majority of users, their bleeding will completely stop. If you find yourself experiencing long and bothersome spotting, you should consult your healthcare provider for treatment. If the light bleeding does not go away after treatment, it is time to consider switching to another contraceptive method.
