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Contraceptive implant: pros, cons and risks

Contraceptive implant: pros, cons and risks
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The contraceptive implant is a small plastic cylinder measuring 4 cm long and 2 mm in diameter. It contains the same hormones as the mini-pill, except that is is diffused directly into the bloodstream and prevents ovulation. It lasts for three years, and is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. So what are the advantages, the inconveniences, and the risks? 

The advantages of the contraceptive implant

  • Excellent efficacy: 99%.
  • Affordable
  • Long lasting: providing three years of contraception
  • Generally well tolerated
  • Doesn’t contain oestrogen: no risk of stroke. But the progestins prevent ovulation and modify the vaginal secretions in order to block sperm.
  • Immediate effect: you are protected from 24 hours after the implant is inserted
  • You can use it while breastfeeding.
  • Once you have it removed, your fertility levels rapidly return to normal, which happens in less than a week.

The inconveniences of the contraceptive implant

  • After applying an anaesthetic ointment, the implant is inserted under the skin on the inside of arm, with a special needle.
  • It leaves a scar after it is removed under local anaesthetic.
  • Even if they generally disappear after 6 months, the contraceptive implant is linked to problems with the menstrual cycle. Periods are irregular, they come unexpectedly or they disappear completely.
  • It is linked to weight gain
  • It can cause spots or acne
  • More rarely, it can cause nauseabreast sensitivity and headaches.
  • Sometimes, you can find it irritating. 

The contraceptive implant: the risks and contra-indications

The implant is contra-indicated in the cases of:

  • evolutionary venous thrombo-embolism: phlebitis or pulmonary embolism
  • a tumour that is sensitive to the reproductive hormones
  • unexplained vaginal bleeding
  • presence or history of severe liver disease
  • genital haemorrhages
  • hypersensitivity to the active ingredients or indeed any of the substances contained in the implant.

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