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Contraceptive Implant

Contraceptive Implant
Contraceptive Implant

What is the contraceptive Implant?

The Contraceptive Implant, also known as a Birth Control implant is a long-term, reversible, hormonal contraceptive in the form of tiny thin rods that are inserted into the upper arm. These rods release a hormone that prevents pregnancy for 3 to 5 years.

How big is the Contraceptive Implant?

The Contraceptive Implant comes in small, flexible plastic rods or capsules (the size of a matchstick) inserted under the upper arm’s skin. A woman can not initiate or terminate the usage of a contraceptive implant on her own. Implants can only be inserted or removed by a trained healthcare provider.

How does a Contraceptive Implant work?

Once inserted, the Contraceptive Implant releases the hormone progestin, similar to the progesterone that is naturally found in a woman’s body. It works by:

  1. Preventing ovaries from releasing eggs
  2. Thickening cervical mucus to block sperm from getting to the egg [1].

How long does the contraceptive Implant last?

The Contraceptive Implant can prevent pregnancy for up to five years, and there are different types:

  1. Implanon, or Nexplanon, is a one-rod containing etonogestrel. It’s effective for three years, although studies have shown that it can last up to five years (can be seen on an X-ray).
  2. Jadelle is two rods containing levonorgestrel. It’s effective for up to five years.
  3. Levoplant – also known as Sino-implant – comes in the form of two rods containing levonorgestrel. It’s effective for three years [2].

How effective is the Contraceptive Implant?

It provides 99.9% protection against pregnancy and other associated risks, including ectopic pregnancy. Some medications can however reduce the implant’s effectiveness. If you are considering a Contraceptive implant, remember to mention any medication you are taking to your healthcare provider.

What does the Contraceptive Implant look like?

Contraception Quiz

Need more help choosing your ideal method? Take our contraceptive quiz.

Answer a few simple questions, and based on the responses, we will recommend contraceptive options that could work for you.

Take the quiz
External Condom

Compare with similar Contraceptive Methods

Are you wondering if condoms are better than daily pills? Or if you should opt for a birth control implant? We're here to assist you in making this decision. You can select up to 5 contraceptive methods and compare them side by side to weigh the pros and cons of each.

Give a try to our Contraceptive Tool

In the example below, you'll find similar methods to the one you're currently reading about. Feel free to click on any that catch your interest or revisit our Contraceptive Methods page

Birth Control Ring

Hormonal

What is it?
The vaginal ring is a small, bendable ring that is inserted into the vagina as a form of contraception.
Effectiveness
  • It's 93-99% effective.
  • Pros
    • It can result in regular, less painful, and lighter periods.
    • It has a lower dose of hormones compared to other hormonal contraceptive methods.
    • It doesn’t delay the ability to get pregnant after stopping use.
    Cons
    • It requires regular upkeep as you have to replace it on time, once a month.
    • It doesn’t offer long-lasting protection and is only effective with regular use. It’s worn for three weeks, followed by a week with no ring in place.
    • The most common side effect is irregular bleeding for the first few months and then lighter and more regular bleeding may occur.
    • Other side effects include headaches, nausea, stomach bloating, sore breasts, weight changes, and vaginitis.
    Contraceptive Patch

    Hormonal

    The patch is a thin, square 5cm Band-Aid-like item containing progestin and estrogen hormones. It's stuck onto the body to prevent pregnancy.
  • It's 93- 99% effective.
    • It can result in more regular, lighter, and less painful periods.
    • It remains effective even when you vomit or have diarrhea.
    • It doesn’t delay the ability to get pregnant after stopping use.
    • It’s not easy to hide as it can be seen on your body.
    • It requires regular upkeep. A new patch is applied each week for three weeks, followed by a week with no patch.”
    • It doesn’t provide long-lasting protection, and it’s only effective when used properly within each monthly cycle.
    • The most common side effect is irregular bleeding for the first few months, and then lighter and more regular bleeding may occur.
    • Other side effects are potential skin irritation, nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, and vaginitis. Side effects are not harmful and will usually ease up after a few months.
    Progestin-Only Contraceptive Pill

    Hormonal

    The progestin-only contraceptive pill is a small single-hormone tablet taken to prevent pregnancy.
  • It's 99% effective for breastfeeding women.
  • It's 93% effective for non-breastfeeding women.
    • It has low doses of hormones (progestin only).
    • It can be used by women who smoke and are above 35 years old.
    • It relieves PMS symptoms and period cramps.
    • The most common side effect is a change in bleeding patterns (irregular, prolonged, or no bleeding at all).
    • Other side effects include headaches, dizziness, abdominal pain, sore breasts, mood changes, and nausea.
    • The side effects are not harmful but may be uncomfortable.
    Emergency Contraceptive Pills (Morning After Pill)

    Hormonal

    The emergency contraceptive pill is taken to prevent pregnancy after unsafe sex.
  • It's 99% effective.
    • It’s safe for all women, including those who cannot use a regular hormonal contraceptive method.
    • It doesn’t require a prescription or medical consultation to access it.
    • It doesn’t delay a return to fertility.
    • It’s not easy to hide. It may be found in your bag.
    • It doesn’t provide long-term protection. It offers one-time protection and is only effective when taken within five days of having unprotected sex.
    • It may cause nausea and vomiting, slightly irregular vaginal bleeding, and fatigue. The side effects are not harmful.
    • It’s not recommended for use as a regular contraceptive.
    Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill

    Hormonal

    The combined oral contraceptive pill is a small tablet with a daily dose of combined hormones, packaged for each month, to prevent pregnancy.
  • It is 93% - 99% effective.
    • It’s easily available (no prescription needed).
    • It gives you control over when to have a period.
    • It can reduce ovulation pains, premenstrual cramps, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.
    • It offers long-lasting protection, but it’s only effective with regular daily use.
    • It’s difficult to hide and may be found by an uncooperative partner!
    • The most common side effect is a change in bleeding patterns (spotting between periods, lighter bleeding, or no bleeding at all). Some women experience mild headaches, weight changes, and upset stomachs.
    • The side effects are not harmful and disappear after a few months.

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