Using Implanon for Birth Control

Implanon has been around for over a decade but is still considered part of the new wave in birth control that provides effective protection against pregnancy with more convenience than ever.

What’s the Deal

Implanon is a contraceptive that is implanted under the skin. It’s made of medical grade polymer and is small and hardly wider than a needle. It is implanted under the skin of your upper forearm by a doctor who uses a special applicator to insert it. Just as when you go in for a vaccine, the skin on your arm will be sterilized before the implantation. Some doctors may also apply a topical numbing agent (anesthetic) to make it less painful, though it’s been said to not be a very painful procedure to begin with. Once the rod is inserted under the skin, you won’t be able to see it, but should be able to feel it to make sure that it’s been implanted properly.

Implanon then works by releasing a steady dose of progestin which protects you against pregnancy. It is effective for up to 3 years and can be removed at any time before that. In order to help you keep track of when it was implanted, your doctor will give you an information card for you records that shows the date. While Implanon keeps you from getting pregnant while it is implanted, you will be fertile again once it is removed. While it doesn’t affect your fertility, it has been known to cause menstrual problems in some women after use. These problems include irregular bleeding as well as heavy bleeding or periods that lasted longer than they should and cramping.

What Else You Should Also Know

This method of birth control only provides you protection against unwanted pregnancy but still leaves you at risk for developing sexually transmitted diseases if you do not practice safe sex. Condoms or abstinence are your only protection against STDs.

You also need to know that as with all other methods of birth control using hormones, Implanon does have some possible side effects that you may experience. Some of the more common side effects reported included:

- Acne
- Depression
- Weight Gain
- Headaches and migraines
- Mood changes
- Irregular periods
- Tender breasts
- Pain (at area of insertion)

Talk to your doctor about the risks and complications involved for you specifically before opting to use Implanon as your method of birth control. Just like the birth control pill, Implanon is not recommended for everyone. Speaking to your doctor will help you make the best choice based on your needs as well as your medical history and overall health.