Implants are used for long-acting contraception or control of periods. They are inserted just under the skin on the upper arm via a small surgical procedure which can be carried out within the surgery. Your doctor or nurse will have already discussed suitability with you. Nexplanon (the implant we insert as a contraceptive) will work for 3 years unless your BMI is over 30kg/m2 whereby we may suggest you have a replacement before this.
Possible Risks:
- Bleeding from site post procedure
- Bruising around site post procedure pain – usually at site and settles within 2 weeks
- Infection and/or scar at insertion site
- Change in period pattern including irregular, prolonged and/or absent bleeding.
- Contraception failure (less than 1 in 1,000 over 3 years)
- Difficulty removing implant including need to be seen by a specialist clinic for removal
Pre-Insertion:
- Continue with your current contraception up to 7 days after your implant has been fitted for the first time (if you are having a replacement for an implant that has not exceeded its lifespan no additional contraception is required).
- If you are not using any other form of contraception you need to abstain from sexual intercourse from the date of your last period until insertion. We cannot fit an implant if there is any risk that you might be pregnant.
- You can eat and drink as normal prior to your implant insertion and, also continue to take any other medication as normal.
Post Care:
- Keep the insertion area dry for 24 hours then remove the dressing and steri-strips.
- If you notice any bleeding press onto the wound – this should stop the bleeding. If the bleeding continues please call the surgery and arrange an appointment with a healthcare professional. Out of hours please call 111 for advice.
Please remember to continue your normal contraception method for 7 days after the insertion of your first implant.