Implanon® is a small plastic rod, about the size of a matchstick, which is inserted just under the skin on the inside of a girl's upper arm. The rod slowly releases a female hormone called progesterone into the bloodstream over a period of three years. But Implanon® won't protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It's a good idea that both partners have an STI test before having unprotected sex (sex without a condom), even if the girl has Implanon®.
Implanon® works in three ways:
- Temporarily prevents ovulation (an egg from being released from the ovaries every month).
- Temporarily thins the lining of the womb (uterus) to prevent a fertilised egg from attaching to it.
- Thickens the discharge (juices) from the cervix to help prevent sperm from going into the womb (uterus).
When the rod is inserted correctly by a doctor, Implanon® is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Advantages:
- Convenient - you don't have to remember to take anything.
- Lasts for a long time - three years.
- Effective.
- Easily removed.
Disadvantages:
- Does not protect against STIs - protection such as condoms must be used.
- The menstrual cycle is altered, causing irregular periods and spotting through the cycle.
Implanon® costs $5 - $25 every three years plus the cost of insertion by your doctor.
Get it from your doctor or sexual health clinic.
Other types of contraception
