According to the latest study of the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG), 86 % of women use different methods to prevent unintended pregnancies. Some of the common methods include a condom, oral contraceptive pills (OCP), and an intrauterine device (IUD).  Other hormonal birth control methods also offer the same non-contraceptive benefits as OCP.

The contraceptive implants (Implanon insertion) are one of the long-term hormonal birth control options for women. It uses the contraceptive rod (matchstick size) under the upper arm skin.

What Is Implanon and How Effective Is It?

 As mention earlier, Implanon is one of the hormonal methods women use to avoid pregnancy.  It is a soft 4cm contraceptive bar that releases progesterone (sex hormone) into the body. It is the same hormone that your ovary produces during the menstrual cycle.

A gynaecology trained GP inserts implanon under the skin of the upper arm where it slowly releases progesterone hormone to prevent pregnancy. Plus, the hormone blocks the release of eggs from the ovary. 

According to the CDC (the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), Implanon insertion is an effective and reliable birth control method. The method is considered extremely effective as only one out of a hundred women who use Implanon get pregnant.

More than half a million American women rely on the contraceptive bar as a safe method to prevent pregnancy. Contraceptive rod not only releases the sex hormones but also thickens the cervical mucus. This condition prevents sperms (male sex hormones) from entering the uterus.

Who Can Use Implanon, and Who Cannot?

Implanon insertion can offer you effective results as soon as you are sexually active but want to prevent unintended pregnancies. However, it is not appropriate for all women. Although you can consult any medical professional to take guidance, a gynecology trained GP is the best person to guide you on whether or not Implanon is the right option for you.

She may discourage the use of contraceptive rod if you have;

• An allergy to an implant component
• Breast cancer (or have suffered from breast cancer in the past)
• Undiagnosed genital bleeding
• Had a heart attack, or blood clot
• Liver disease or tumour 0r Gall bladder disease.
• Seizures or epilepsy

According to The Royal Australian New Zealand College of Obstetricians, some common side effects of Implanon insertion include;

• Numbness
• Bruising
• Minor bleeding
• Pain
• Tingling
• Scarring at the skin where the contraceptive rod is implanted
• Weight gain

What is Good about Implanon?

 Following are the benefits that make Implanon an effective long-term method;

• It makes periods less painful
• It can last up to three years
• It can be a good replacement of hormone estrogen – pills that contain both progesterone and estrogen.
• It can be removed easily
• As it’s a progesterone only products it does not have those oestrogen related side effect.

What is Possible Side Effect?

The possible side effects include;

• Bloating
• Headaches mood changes
• Irregular vaginal bleeding patterns

These side effects are temporary.

Does Implanon Affect Pregnancy?

No, Implanon does not affect pregnancy.  It is harmless and safe for the women who conceive with it. They can both remove the contraceptive rod or eliminate the pregnancy.

Where Can I Get Implanon Done?   

Wellcare Medical Centre Kingston is one of the best options for you if you are looking for an Implanon insertion. Our competent and experienced team of Gynecology trained female GP and Registered Nurse has expertise in woman health.  We ensure that our patients receive the best treatment options. 

You can reach us at our women’s health clinic in Logan. We will help you with any queries related to your health and wellbeing. We are conveniently located on the main road at 497 Kingston Road Kingston 4114   

Please contact us at 07 31334483 for consultation.

Please head to our website for more information about our services: https://www.wellcaremedicalcentre.org.au/obstetric-gynecology-services/