Some advice and information for you if you've been fitted with a contraceptive implant.
You have been fitted with the Nexplanon contraceptive implant.
This is due to be changed by: .........../.........../...........
Make a note of this date as we will not recall you.
How does the implant work?
The contraceptive implant releases progestogen which will:
- Stop the ovaries releasing an egg each month
- Thicken the cervical mucus, which makes it hard for the sperm to travel from the vagina through the womb to get to an unfertilised egg
- Thin the lining of the womb, making it unlikely a fertilised egg could implant.
Taking care of the wound
After your implant has been fitted the nurse will put a dressing over it which you should keep on for 24–48 hours to keep the area clean. Your arm may be slightly bruised or swollen and might feel tender. There is a small chance that the wound could become infected. If you notice any redness, pain, bleeding or pus where you had the implant, seek medical advice.
How long is the implant effective?
The implant lasts for three years, after which it will stop working and will need to be replaced if you want to continue using this form of contraception. You can have the implant removed at any time and your fertility will return to normal. If you decide to have it removed and don’t want to get pregnant, use another form of contraception for seven days before removal and after it is removed. This is because sperm can survive in your body for up to seven days and the implant becomes ineffective as soon as it is removed.
Your periods
After being fitted with the implant, your periods may change - although they usually go back to normal after a year or so. They might stop or become irregular, shorter or lighter - or they might get heavier and last longer. Seek medical advice if you have problems with ongoing bleeding.
Side effects
Some people experience side effects, as the implant is a hormonal contraceptive. Common side effects can include nausea, breast tenderness, gaining weight, acne and headaches.
How soon am I protected against pregnancy?
You will be protected against pregnancy straight away if the implant is fitted in days one to five of your period. If not, it will take seven days for you to be protected, so during this time use alternative contraception such as condoms or Femidoms.
If you have recently given birth and have the implant fitted up to 21 days later, you will be protected straight away. If you have your implant fitted after day 21 it will take seven days for you to be protected, so during this time use alternative contraception such as condoms or Femidoms.
Other medication
If you start to take any medication over the next three years, bear in mind that certain medicines can stop the implant from working effectively. These include drugs for epilepsy, tuberculosis and HIV as well as some complementary treatment. Check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting any other treatment.
Contact us
If you have any concerns after your implant fitting please contact us on:
Earls Court Health and Wellbeing Centre: 020 7341 0300
Terrence Higgins Trust sexual health and contraception service: 020 7341 0312/11
If you think you have an infection at the wound site, please seek medical advice or contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or THT Direct on 0808 802 1221.