- Longer or shorter bleeding with menstrual periods
- Headache
- Breast pain
- Pain or bruising at site of insertion
Contraceptive Implant
The contraceptive implant (also known as NEXPLANON® or the etonogestrel implant) is a prescription medication for the prevention of pregnancy.
The contraceptive implant is a small flexible implant that is placed under the skin of the upper arm.
The contraceptive implant works by releasing a low steady dose of progesterone hormone to stop an egg from being released by the ovary and prevents sperm from reaching the egg. It also thins the lining of the uterus making it difficult for an egg to attach itself.
The contraceptive implant is a long acting birth control option and effective for 3 years, but it can be removed at any time.
- Weight gain, acne, mood changes
Who should not use the contraceptive implant?
- Don’t use the contraceptive implant if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
- Don’t use the contraceptive implant if you have health conditions such as – history of blood clots, liver disease, unexplained vaginal bleeding, certain types of cancer and Lupus
- Pregnancy – Less than 0.1% risk of pregnancy per year.
- The risks of insertion of the contraceptive implant include redness, infection, bruising, pain, swelling, scarring, incorrect placement, and/or damage to the nerve/blood vessels.
- During the procedure you will lie on your back with your arm raised
- Local anesthetic (freezing medication) will be injected to the area
- The contraceptive implant will be inserted just beneath the skin
- You should be able to feel the implant under the skin in the upper arm to confirm for placement
- The insertion site will be covered with a small bandage with a larger pressure bandage over top to minimize bruising
- The larger pressure bandage can be removed after 24 hours. Keep the small bandage on for 3 to 5 days.
- You should be using a back-up method of birth control for 7 days after the insertion of the implant
Contact our clinic or a health care provider if you develop
- Heavy, prolonged bleeding
- Signs of an infection at the insertion site (tenderness, redness, swelling or discharge)
- Signs or symptoms of pregnancy
- If you cannot feel the contraceptive implant
- Once removed you can get pregnant right away
- If desired, replacement can be done at the same time of removal
Remember:
The contraceptive implant will not protect you against sexually transmitted and blood borne infections (STBBIs) including HIV. Use condoms to lower your risk.
Call the Sexual Health Infoline Ontario at 1-800-668-2437 if you have questions or need help.
For more information on the contraceptive implant, please visit:
Sexual Health Clinic
179 Clarence St
Ottawa, ON K1N5P7
613-234-4641 | TTY: 613-580-9656