Implanon is a hormonal method of birth control that is about the size of a matchstick and inserted in a woman’s upper arm. It lasts for three years and fertility returns after it is removed. Implanon works by releasing the hormone progestin into the woman’s body which prevents ovulation.
Implanon has been found to be 99% effective in preventing pregnancy and is a convenient method of birth control for women who are looking for something long term but have a lifestyle that does not support taking a pill everyday or a shot every 12 weeks.
Like any hormonal method of birth control, Implanon has been shown to have side effects in some of the women who use it. The most common side effect is irregular bleeding. Irregular bleeding is most common in the first six to twelve months after insertion. Irregular bleeding with Implanon can take many forms. Periods can become heavier or lighter. Some women have longer periods some women have shorter periods. Spotting between periods can also occur.
1 out of 3 women who use Implanon as their method of birth control stop getting a period completely within 1 year of use. The irregular bleeding is considered a minor side effect of Implanon as are these less common side effects:
It is rare that women experience any serious side effects with Implanon, however, a woman should contact her health care provider immediately if she experiences any of the following after the Implanon insertion:
Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should not have Implanon inserted. Women who smoke, have a history of blood clots, liver disease or breast cancer are not considered good candidates for Implanon.
The information provided on Contracept.org is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational purposes and does not constitute the practice of medicine. We encourage all visitors to see a licensed physician or nutritionist if they have any concerns regarding health issues related to diet, personal image and any other topics discussed on this site. Neither the owners or employees of Contracept.org nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
