Birth Control Implant -- Implanon

Implanon is the latest in implantable contraception. It is a flexible plastic rod about the size of a matchstick that is put under the skin of your arm in an in-office procedure. This is a fantastic option for women who want to avoid having to remember their birth control every day, every week, or every month since it lasts for three years.
Implanon has been used over 4.5 million times worldwide and is more than 99% effective. This is a great solution for women who have problems remembering to take pills, have hectic schedules that prevent them from getting to the pharmacy or taking a birth control method regularly, or who want to avoid having to find that condom or diaphragm when the time is right.
Implanon is a very low-dose hormonal method that contains only progestin, so can be used by women who cannot take or who are sensitive to estrogen. This may include women with histories of clotting disorders, high blood pressure, or migraines. It is also safe for women who are breastfeeding.
The implant is made of a medical material that is safe to leave in the arm for up to three years. At the end of three years, it should be removed. If continued contraception is desired, another one can be placed at the same time as removal. If during the three years, a woman decides the time is right to start trying for a pregnancy, the Implanon can be removed at any time and fertility rapidly returns.
The implant is placed with local anesthesia (like Novacaine) in the doctor’s office. The visit will take about 15 minutes and actually placing it takes about 3 minutes. The best time to have it put in is during your period, but can be placed at any time if it’s more convenient.
The most common side effect that women notice with the Implanon is that their periods change. Usually, this is a reduction in bleeding, but it can also cause periods to be irregular. The number of bleeding or spotting days is similar to that experienced by a woman who is not on contraception. This effect is completely normal and is a sign that Implanon is working the way it should. Less common side effects include acne, change in appetitive, , change in sex drive, ovarian cysts, depression, scarring of the skin over the implant, dizziness, hair loss, headache, nausea, nervousness, pain at the site of the implant, and sore breasts. These side effects are much more rare, and most women adjust to the Implanon quickly and easily.
For more information, discuss with your health care provider, make an appointment with Dr. Swartz, or contact your local Planned Parenthood.