Hormonal Methods of Birth Control (cont.)
Contraceptive implants (Implanon)
A contraceptive implant known as Implanon is available in the U.S. Implanon
provides contraception by the slow release of the progestin etonogestrel over a
period of three years. Implanon is a thin rod that is inserted in the upper
arm under local anesthesia. Protection from pregnancy occurs within 24 hours of
insertion of the rod. One advantage of the Implanon rod is that fertility
rapidly returns after removal of the rod.
Preliminary studies of the product showed that it was generally
well tolerated and effective in preventing pregnancy. However, these studies
showed that irregular bleeding is a possible side effect of the product.
As with all other hormonal methods of birth control, Implanon will not
protect a woman against sexually transmitted infections.
Previous contributing authors: Barbara K. Hecht,
PhD and Carolyn Janet Crandall, MD, FACP
Last Editorial Review: 1/22/2009
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