MyChart
Birth Control Hormones: The Implant
Overview
The implant is used to prevent pregnancy. It's a thin rod about the size of a matchstick that is inserted under the skin (subdermal) on the inside of your arm.
The implant releases the hormone progestin to prevent pregnancy. Progestin prevents pregnancy in these ways: It thickens the mucus in the cervix. This makes it hard for sperm to travel into the uterus. It also thins the lining of the uterus, which makes it harder for a fertilized egg to attach to the uterus. Progestin can sometimes stop the ovaries from releasing an egg each month (ovulation).
The implant prevents pregnancy for 3 years. But your doctor may talk to you about leaving it in for longer. Once it is put in, you don't have to do anything else to prevent pregnancy.
The implant can only be inserted by your doctor or another trained health professional. It only takes a few minutes. This can also be done right after you give birth. Your doctor will remove the implant when it needs to be taken out.
Your doctor numbs the area and "injects" the implant under your skin. No cuts are made in your skin. To remove the implant, your doctor numbs the area, makes a small cut in the skin, and pulls the implant out.
How well does it work?
The implant works very well. Fewer than 1 woman out of 100 has an unplanned pregnancy.
Be sure to tell your doctor about any health problems you have or medicines you take. He or she can help you choose the birth control method that is right for you.
What are the advantages of using the implant for birth control?
- The implant is one of the most effective methods of birth control.
- It prevents pregnancy for up to 3 years. You don't have to worry about birth control for this time.
- It's safe to use while breastfeeding.
- The implant doesn't contain estrogen. So you can use it if you don't want to take estrogen or can't take estrogen because you have certain health problems or concerns.
- It may reduce heavy bleeding and cramping.
- It's convenient. It is always providing birth control and cannot be seen. You don't need to remember to take a pill or get a shot. You don't have to interrupt sex to protect against pregnancy.
What are the disadvantages of using the implant for birth control?
- The implant doesn't protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as herpes or HIV/AIDS. If you aren't sure if your sex partner might have an STI, use a condom to protect against infection.
- It may cause irregular periods, or you may have spotting between periods. You may also stop getting a period. Some women see having no period as an advantage.
- It may cause mood changes, less interest in sex, or weight gain.
- You have to see a doctor to have an implant inserted and removed.
Credits
Current as of: August 2, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
- Top of the page
Next Section:
Credits
Previous Section:
Overview- Top of the page
Current as of: August 2, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
